Studio of David Morier

Possibly in the Collection of Sir John Cust, 3rd Bt. of Belton (1718-80), who was Clerk of the Household to Frederick Prince of Wales, the sitter's brother;
Peregrine Cust, 6th Baron Brownlow (1899-1978), Belton House, Grantham;
His sale, London, Christie's, 3 May 1929, lot 51 (as 'D. Morier') to F. Howard;
Princess Marie Louise (1872-1956);
Sold by Order of H.R.H. The Duke of Gloucester, London, Christie's, 8 May 1959, lot 9 (as 'Morier') for 12 gns.;
Private collection, until transferred into the present Charitable Trust.

The painting is more muted in colour than the catalogue illustration suggests, and the canvas has been relined and the weave is faintly visible. The paint surface is in good overall condition with no damage or loss of paint except for an old minor loss parallel to the lower part of the horses upraised leg. Also under a raking light an old minor L-shaped tear, measuring approx. 3 in., and associated retouching in the sky is visible in the front chest of the horse. There is also a minor surface scratch in the sky upper centre measuring approx. 4 in. The painting is otherwise in good overall condition. Ultraviolet light confirms the aforementioned retouching and reveals scattered minor cosmetic retouches to the foreground and to the sky. Apart from some minor strengthening to the contours of the horse and some scattered very minor retouches to the Duke's face and glove, the principle parts are in good condition. There is also a discoloured varnish overall. Offered in a gilt wood and plaster frame in good 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."