Richard Crosse

the lady, seated, wearing a blue and white dress, a basket of flowers on her right arm, recto; the child, with a pet squirrel and dog, wearing a white gown with a blue sash and plumed cap verso, gilt-metal frame  

Ivory ground. The Lady: In the sky there is an area of discoloration, caused by the natural colour and texture of the ivory. On the red drapery and in the shadow of the column there are very slight foxmarks. Along the margin, at the lower right, there is an unobtrusive watermark. The child: In the dark areas of impasto - around the dog and in the vegetation - there is very minor paint loss due to the crazing of the gum arabic.
"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 traditional identification of the sitters as Lady Sydenham and Miss Sydenham is impossible to substantiate.