Dame Laura Knight, R.A., R.W.S.

Private collection, from whom bequeathed to the present owner circa 1980 

STRUCTURE Original canvas, undulates slightly. There is a faint stretcher mark to the left edge and there are a few isolated and minor cracks in the yellow pigment and the along the left edge in the blue pigment, only visible upon very close inspection; otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT Under UV light there appears to be a faint line of retouching in the blue background, running diagonally from the girl's hair to the left edge, which may relate to an old abrasion. FRAME Held in a wood frame
"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."

In subject and composition, the present work resembles Laura Knight's remarkable series of dancers and performers she undertook in the 1920s on her move to London. In the tradition of Degas and Sickert, these pictures capture the performers in private moments backstage, and reflect her love for the ballet and theatre. Many of these pioneering portraits have been recently exhibited in Laura Knight: Portraits at the National Portrait Gallery.