Joseph Highmore

Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 24th July 1986, lot 105

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition. There is no apparent damage or loss of paint. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals an area of retouching in the upper right corner, and scattered small flecks of retouching in the background on the right hand side. There is infilling to fine lines of craquelure in the flesh tones of the face and chest of the sitter, as well as minor areas of retouching to the neck, jaw and upper forehead of the sitter. there is a small amount of further very minor scattered retouching in the background. FRAME Held in a carved and gilded frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com.
"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."

It has been suggested that the sitter could be a member of the artist's family.