John Opie, R.A.

half-length, wearing naval uniform

Commissioned from the artist by the sitter;
by desent to his daughter-in-law Mrs C.W. Popham;
Mrs T.J. Uzielli;
with Walker Galleries;
Anonymous sale, Sotheby's London, 18th November 1992, lot 40

A. Earland, John Opie and his Circle, 1911, p.308;
J.J. Rogers, Opie and his Works, 1878, p.147

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals scattered minor retouching overall, particularly in the face. There is also a layer of opaque varnish overall. FRAME Held in a British Rococo style 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 son of Joseph Popham, consul at Tetuan from 1728, and his second wife Catherine Lamb. He was half brother of the celebrated naval commander Sir Home Riggs Popham. Born in Falmouth, one of twenty-one children, in 1794 he was made a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy and promoted Captain in 1797. On 17th July 1801 he married Phillippa Wallis, of Trevarno, near Helston in Cornwall by whom he had six children. His eldest son, Christopher Wallace Popham of Antron Lodge, was High Sheriff of Cornwall in 1833. His youngest daughter, Catherine Lamb Popham, married William Stephens Dicken, Deputy Inspector General of Hospitals, Bengal.