Circle of Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger

Lincoln Kirstein (1907-1996);
Anonymous sale, New York, Christie's, 23 May 1997, lot 40;
With Richard Philp, London, by 1998, where acquired by the present owner.

The picture is slightly more muted in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest. The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is in very good conditon, with no evidence of damage or loss of paint except for a diagonal tear measuring approx. 20 in. in the background between his legs. There is a yellow varnish overall. Examination under ultraviolet reveals retouching to the aforementioned area. There are also scattered cosmetic flecks of retouching in the face, including retouching to an old repaired diagonal tear running through his forehead and right eyebrow measuring approx. 8 in., and to old superficial surface scratches in the stockings. There is further minor scattered retouching throughout the costume and to his cloak. There is also minor scattered retouching through the background and to a probable diagonal abrasion upper right measuring approx. 8 in. and to what may be an old repaired vertical tear running through his left toe measuring approx. 6 in. Offered in a black Dutch style black and gold 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."

This grand and imposing portrait depicts John, the son of Robert Howe (d. 1590) and his wife Elizabeth whom he married in 1568. The third son of six, the sitter went on to become a successful London merchant. Following in the footsteps of his father he became a member of the Worshipful Company of Salters forging useful business connections with the Portuguese, who were importing large amounts of salted cod from England at this date. These connections served him well in later life, enabling him to get a passport to Portugal where he became involved with the importation of port to London.