Lot 108
  • 108

John Russell R.A.

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description

  • John Russell R.A.
  • Portrait of Captain Benjamin Sydenham (1777-1828)
  • signed l.r: J. Russell R.A pinxt 1802
  • pastel on wove paper
  • 59.5 by 44.2 cm.; 23 by 17 1/2 in.

Provenance

By descent from the sitter to Major Ross, Eastbourne, 1894;
Asher Wertheimer;
Anonymous sale in these Rooms, 22 March 2000, lot 92 (bt. by the present owner)

Exhibited

London, Grosvenor Gallery, 1889, no. 214

Literature

George C. Williamson, John Russell, R.A., 1894, p. 161

Condition

The pastel has remained in excellent condition. The signature is strong and un rubbed. Overall for its age the work has been well preserved.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Benjamin Sydenham was Secretary to the Marquis of Wellesley, when Governor General of India. He served in the Madras engineers from 1794 to 1808 and was an amateur artist. His father William Sydenham was a Major-General in the East India Company and his brother George was an Ambassador in India (see lot 109).