After Sir Joshua Reynolds, P.R.A.

Original canvas. There are extensive abrasions to the paint and the surface is dirty and discoloured. Held in a gilded wooden frame, losses.
"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."

The second surviving son of Henry Fox, 1st Baron Holland, and his wife Lady Caroline Lennox, daughter of the 2nd Duke of Richmond, Fox was one of the leading Whig politicians of his age. Having risen to prominence in the House of Commons as a forceful and eloquent speaker, he served briefly as Foreign Secretary under Rockingham's government in 1782, and returned to the post in for the coalition government under Lord North in 1783. A staunch opponent of the King and an unflinching supporter of the American War of Independence, who took to wearing the colours of Washington's Army in daily life, Fox was forced out of power by George III, along with North, and spent the next twenty-two years in opposition to his arch-rival, Pitt the Younger. A noted anti-slavery campaigner and supporter of the French Revolution, following Pitt's death in January 1806 he served again as Foreign Secretary in Grenville's Ministry of All Talents.

Fox was a very great friend of the Duke and Duchess. The Duchess famously campaigning for him in 1784. He died in 1806 in their house at Chiswick.