Studio of Georg Christoph Grooth

The canvas has an old firm relining. The paint surface is secure, though a little dirty and somewhat abraded in the background and sky. A fine craquelure runs throughout. There is a small old restored damage, measuring approximately 2 by 2 cm. upper centre which is visible in raking light, and a small surface scratch, approximately 4 cm. in length below the servant's foot, but no major damages to the painting are apparent. Inspection under UV light confirms the retouchings to the aforementioned old damage and extensive infilling of the craquelure in the darker and red tones of the painting, as well as a handful of scattered retouchings elsewhere. Offered in an ornate gilt wood and plaster frame in good condition, though a little rubbed and with a few minor knocks.
"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."

A painting of the same composition but slightly larger dimensions is in the Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow. A similar equestrian portrait of the sitter sold London, Sotheby's, Russian Paintings, 7 June 2011, lot 116, for £85,000.

Elisabeth Petrovna was the daughter of Peter the Great and Catherine I. She became empress herself in 1741 and is represented here in the uniform of the Preobrazhensky regiment.