John Russell R.A.

by decent from the sitters to Dr Beresford N.Earle, The Soke, Winchester, 1894;
sale, London, Sotheby's, 30 June 2005, lot 222

Royal Academy, 1801, no.335;
Sothebys, Childhood - A Loan Exhibition of Paintings and Works of Art in aid of Save the Children Fund, 2nd - 27th January 1988, no.75

George C.Williamson, John Russell, 1894, pp.82 and 141

The overall condition of this work is good. The surface is however not free from minor abrasions. Several small scratches and areas where the pastel has been disturbed can be seen on close inspection. There is also a skilfully repaired paper loss located on the chest of the girl seated to the right. The frame is likely not be the original, but it is none-the-less impressive and in a well preserved state.
"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."

Russell made several portraits of various members of the Earle family, including Mr Joseph Earle, Mrs Earle (nee Langstone) with her baby and the present work (see George C.Williamson, John Russell,1984, p.141).

A similar portrait by the artist of a young boy with a lamb was also included in the Childhood exhibition at Sotheby's in 1988, no.74