Barthélémy Du Pan

From an album of drawings by the artist in the possession of his descendant, Jules M. Du Pan (whose collector's mark, L.1440, was on the fly-leaf),
possibly his sale, Paris, 26 March 1840;
with Kate de Rothschild, New York-Paris-London, Master Drawings, 1993, no. 20

Not taken out of frame as seems unnecessary. Paper looks in fine condition. Crease down centre where folded to make counterproof. Looks like the sheet could be made up around the edges, but the original sheet is the sight size measurement.
"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."

Du Pan studied in Geneva and Paris. From 1743 he worked extensively in England, patronised in particular by the Prince of Wales.  He retired to Geneva and gave up painting, returning to the practice of law.  One of his most famous works is his Portrait of the Children of Frederick, Prince of Wales, with their Mother, dated 1746, which is considered a landmark in its informality.¹  The drawings in the album from which this came were related to paintings made during his time in England, including a portrait of George II.

1. Royal Collection, Windsor Castle, see E. Waterhouse, The Dictionary of British 18th Century Painters..., Woodbridge 1981, reproduced p. 114