Attributed to Charles Beale

The picture is warmer in tone and more yellow in colour than the catalogue illustration suggests.The canvas is lined and the paint has been slightly flattened as a result. The paint surface is in good overall condition otherwise, with no damage or loss of paint visible to the naked eye except for minor discoloured retouching to the back ground parallel to the sitter's left shoulder as can be seen in the catalogue illustration which measures approx. 1 in. Examination under ultraviolet reveals a further minor area of old repaired damage in the hair over the sitter's right ear which measures approx. 1/2 in. in diameter. Otherwise there are a few very minor scattered retouches mainly in the background. There is a discoloured varnish overall however the picture seems to be in good overall condition. Offered in a gilt wood and plaster frame in good overall condition.
"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."