Joseph Nollekens (1737-1823) English, 1811

Commissioned by Baron Rous and thence by descent until; 
Henham Hall, Suffolk house sale, Prudential Fine Art Auctioneers 10-12 October 1988, lot 504;
The collection of William and Bernadette Berger

Royal Academy, 1811, no. 949

Overall the condition of the marble is very good condition. There is some dirt to the surface, particularly to the chest and it would benefit from a professional clean. There are some minor naturally-occuring veins visible. There are a few naturally occuring inclusions to the surface.
"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."

John Rous of Henham Hall, Suffolk, succeeded his father as sixth Baronet in 1771. He was elected to the House of Commons as Member of Parliament for Suffolk in 1780 and held the seat until 1796. In that last year he was raised to the peerage as Baron Rous of Dennington. In 1821 he was created Viscount Dunwich and Earl of Stradbroke. Aside from his parliamentary endeavours John Rous was a keen follower of the turf. He owned a stud farm and in 1815 his colt, Tigris, won the 2,000 Guineas.

The bust is unique in marble. The likeness is carefully described and the marble retains its pristine surface. A plaster version was offered in the 1823 sale of Nollekens studio as lot 66.