Bartholomew Dandridge London 1691 - after 1754

Mr. and Mrs. E.H. Cavendish;
By whom sold, London, Christie's, February 28, 1986, lot 112.

Tightly relined and surface has been a bit pressed as a result. however, the painting reads well overall. there is a craquelure pattern noticeable throughout the flesh tones. ultravioelt light reveals retouches scattered in the flesh tones, mostly inpainting of aforementioned craquelure. a few retouches in background areas. painting could be hung in its present state and presents a charming image. In a carved and gilt wood frame with some minor nicks.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This portrait depicts three of the five children of Robert Ballard (1699-1782) and Margaret Jackson (1709-42), daughter of Sir Philip Jackson.  The sitters are Robert (1737-94), Frances (1740-67) and, probably, their older sister, Jane (1735-50).  Old handwritten labels on the reverse identify one of the two girls as Lucy, however there is no record of a Ballard daughter by that name.
Robert married Melicent Cropp in 1767 and Frances married, as his second wife, John Butler Harrison in 1766.