Lot 339
  • 339

Circle of John Downman, A.R.A.

Estimate
600 - 800 GBP
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Description

  • Circle of John Downman, A.R.A.
  • Portrait of Lady Georgiana Spencer, Duchess of Devonshire (1757-1806)
  • oval, in an earlier carved wood frame with inventory numbers 147n and 215a
  • 29 by 23cm.; 11½ by 9in.

Provenance

Acquired by Spence Combton Cavendish, 8th Duke of Devonshire at some time before 1892 and sent back in to Hardwick Hall

Literature

Lord Hawksbry, Catalogue of the Pictures at Hardwick Hall, 1903, p.31, no. 215a

Condition

Original canvas. There is extensive craquelure across the surface and the varnish is dirty. Held in a carved and gilded frame.
"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."

Catalogue Note

In this portrait the Duchess is seen wearing ostrich feathers in her hair, a style very much of her own creation, but soon taken up by her contemporaries. It is noticeable in the transcribed payments of the period that large sums of money where spent on the cleaning of these feathers for her Grace.