John Frederick Herring Snr 1795-1865

Detroit Galleries, Inc., Fisher Building, Detroit, 1937;
Charles T. Fisher;
By descent to his daughter, Mary Fisher

The canvas has been cleaned, lined and varnished. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals retouching to the horse and along the horizon line. There is evidence of scattered touches of repaint in the foreground as well as a couple of spots of retouching in the sky. A thick varnish obscures a clear reading, although there may be some cosmetic retouching in the sky. Held in a gilt wood 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."

William Hatfield de Rodes was the son of William Hatfield Gossip, of Hatfield House, Yorkshire.  Born in 1824 he married the Hon. Sophia Felicité, daughter of the Hon. and Rev. Alfred Curzon.  In 1846 he assumed by Royal licence the name of de Rodes.  He lived at Barlborough Hall, Chesterfield.

This painting belonged to Charles Fisher, a pioneer in the Detroit car industry and a keen collector of equestrian art.  His daughter, Mary, bred thoroughbreds, with more than thirty stakes winners, including Golden Ruler.