Philip Jean

by family descent

The work is in good fresh condition. The colours have remained bright. There is a small amount of mould visible on a very small part of the sitter's coat, however this can only be seen on very close inspection. In a gold frame, glazed hair and pearl reserve
"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."

Skeffington Lutwidge was the seventh son of Thomas and Lucy Lutwidge of Holmrook Hall, Whitehaven. Joining the navy at an early age, he went on to captain H.M.S. Carcass on an expedition to the North Pole in 1773.

Lutwidge also played a role in the early life of Horatio Nelson (1758-1805). When captaining the expedition to the North Pole, Nelson, then a 15 year old midshipman, served under him.  During this voyage Nelson famously stole away from the ship and attempted to shoot a polar bear. However, his gun failed to fire and he was only saved by the shot of a fellow seaman. When Lutwidge reprimanded his young charge, Nelson replied 'Sir, I wished to kill the bear, that I might carry the skin to my father'. Unimpressed, Lutwidge sentenced him to 24 hours below deck.

Later, Lutwidge fought against the Spanish in the Peninsula wars and was not only wounded, but captured, and subsequently spent three years as a prisoner of war.