J. H. Bakes

signed and inscribed J. H. Bakes/York 1/29 lower right

Christie's London, October 21, 1985, lot 1202

Paper is brittle around edges with old adhesive, losses and perforations that do not disturb the image, colors are bright and fresh. Work is affixed to mat board with archival corners.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Grimston Park, Yorkshire is a late Georgian home with Italianate and classical influences restored and redesigned by Decimus Burton for the 2^nd Lord Howden and his wife the Russian Princess Catherine Bagration in circa 1840 (the original estate was bought by the 1^st Lord Howden in 1812).  After the Howden's divorce, Grimston Park was acquired by Lord Londesborough in 1851 and restoration was completed under his direction.  As shown in the present work, The Yellow Drawing Room on the west section of the garden front exemplifies the Louis XV revival style.  Burton was likely responsible for the modillioned cornice and the Siena marbled columns with bronzed capitals shown at the end of the room.  The drawing room seems to extend far into the distance, but in fact mirrors hung between the columns create the illusion of a much larger space. Italian craftsmen painted the ceiling's fanciful, mythologically inspired series of vignettes along elaborate garlands, while Parisian decorators supplied the gilded wall moldings.  The Savonnerie carpet was selected to coordinate with the circular ceiling design and the impressive chandelier at center; the rich yellow color of the silk curtains matched the upholstered furniture (Christopher Hussey, English Country Houses, Late Georgian 1800-1840, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 1955, p. 230, 238).  In 1872, Grimston Park was sold to the Fielden family who continues to own the Estate today, though the mansion house was sold in the early 1980s and converted to independent residences.