Philip Wilson Steer, O.M., N.E.A.C.

J. S. Maas & Co., London, where bought by Sir David Scott in May 1965 for £36.15.0

STRUCTURE The work is on laid paper which has not been laid down. The sheet is attached to the mount with a piece of tape in each corner. The sheet undulates very slightly across the surface. The sheet shows signs of light staining. There is a small spot of paper discolouration along the lower edge which is disguised by the mount. SURFACE The surface of the sheet is in good overall condition. FRAME Held under glass and presented within a cream mount in a simple gilded rectilinear 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."

Another sketch of the same model resting her head on her hand dated 1902, formerly in the collection of Henry Rushbury, the Keeper of the Royal Academy, was sold in these rooms (6 February 1985, lot 282). According to an annotation on this sketch the model was named Kitty. A professional model named Kitty Limington is known to have posed for Steer.