Attributed to John Hayls

Hon Mrs Forbes (according to an old label attached to the picture)

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in generally good condition. There is some old retouching to the tear in the sitter's nose and right cheek, approximately three inches long horizontally. There is old retouching in the background to the right of the sitter, and in the upper left. There is one minor chip to the paint, centre left, and an old tear in the hair, to which there is some associated retouching. The body of the sitter, and the rest of the face, appear to be in very good condition however. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light confirms the condition mentioned above and reveals an opaque varnish overall. 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, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@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."