After George Romney

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition. There is a fine uneven craquelure visible in the paler pigments which is in keeping with the paintings age. In a raking light an old repaired tear is visible along the lower canvas edge. It begins in the lower right, going diagonally up for approx. 3 in., it then jinxes left and runs diagonally back towards the lower canvas edge for approx. 12 in. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light confirms the damage mentioned above and reveals a thick discoloured varnish overall which makes further inspection difficult. FRAME Held in a gilt wood 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."

This is a reduced copy of a work by George Romney traditionally identified as 'Lady Emma Hamilton as Ariadne'. There are several versions of this composition in existence of which the best known is at the National Maritime Museum, London.