Robert Hunter fl.1752-1803

three-quarter length, seated, wearing a blue velvet jacket and with red robes of office under his left arm

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE There are a few scattered flecks of paint loss and the paint surface is thin in some areas, possibly due to cleaning. There is a small tear in the canvas to the left of the sitter's head which could be repaired easily, and a repair to the upper right hand side, visible only on close inspection. There is also a repair to the lower left of the canvas. There is a small degree of frame abrasion on the extreme upper right, which is partially covered by the frame. ULTRAVIOLET Ultraviolet light does not reveal any additional repair or re-touching. FRAME Held in an ornate plaster gilt frame.
"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."

The sitter was the only surviving son and heir of Henry Loftus of Loftus Hall by his second wife, Anne, daughter and heiress of Henry Crewkern of Exeter, Devon. He was Member of Parliament for Fethard, for Clonmines, and for County Wexford. He was created Baron Loftus of Ely in 1756, and in 1757 he was appointed Governor of County Wexford. He married firstly in 1706, Anne, sister of Brabazon, 1st Earl of Bessborough, second daughter of William, 1st Viscount Duncannon, by Mary, daughter of Randal Moore. He married secondly, Letitia, widow of his cousin, Arthur, 3rd Viscount Loftus of Ely. He died in Dublin in December 1763.