Sir Edwin Henry Landseer, R.A. 1802-1873

Head and shoulders

Hester, Baroness Latymer (D.1961), daughter of Major-General John Cecil Russell, C.V.O., by whom given to the mother of a private English collector

Oil on board. There are no apparent cracks or damages, and the work is in generally very good structural condition. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals some cosmetic retouching to the outline of the sitter's collar and to the outline of his left shoulder. Held in a good gilt wood frame in good condition. The work is in need of no further attention and is ready to hang.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This lively and delicate oil sketch dates to circa 1830 and depicts the ninth son of John Rusell, 6th Duke of Bedford and his second wife, Lady Georgiana Gordon, the daughter of the 4th Duke of Gordon.

The 6th Duke of Bedford was the most important of Landseer's early patrons, and the artist established a close professional and personal relationship with the whole family.  Landseer painted Cosmo Russell at the age of seven in the portrait of Lord Cosmo Russell on his pony Fingall which was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1825.