Nathaniel Hone, R.A.

Richard Payne Knight M.P. (1750-1824), Downton Castle, Ludlow;
Thence by descent until sold anonymously ("The Property of a Lady"), London, Christie's, 8 June 1995, lot 23 for £11,000.

Possibly London, Royal Academy, 1771, no. 105.

A. Crookshank and The Knight of Glin, The Painters of Ireland, c. 1660-1920, London 1978, p. 86, illustrated fig. 72.

The catalogue illutration is representative. The canvas has been lined and the paint surface appears to be in very good overall condition with no appararent damage or loss of paint visible to the naked eye. There are some scattered areas of surface dirt and there is an uneven craquelure in the varnish, but overall the picture appears to be in remarkably good condition. Examination under ultraviolet reveals a thick varnish overall and some very minor cosmetic work to the aforementioned craquelure on the right. Offered in a late 18th century English neo-classical frame which despite minor cracking in the corners at divides, appears to be in very 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."

Julia Metcalfe was the artist's grandaughter, by his daughter Mary who married a Dr. Metcalfe.

ENGRAVED:

In Mezzotint by John Finlayson, 1772