John Downman A.R.A.

Mrs. G. F. Baker, USA
Scott & Fowles, New York
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon (acquired by 1963)

Richmond, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Painting in England 1700-1850, Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon, 1963, cat. no. 270

In overall very good condition, with lovely retention of the paint surface and strong coloration. Examination under UV light reveals some small inpainting of craquelure in boy's red jacket and some in his hair. Some other inpaints can be seen in green curtain between the two figures. One or two other minor cosmetic retouches. Small vertical crack in panel at bottom right edge. Painting is presentable and can be hung as is.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The sitters were the children of Benjamin Way, Esq. (1740-1808) of Denham House, Buckinghamshire, and his wife Elizabeth Anne Cooke (1746-1825).  A preliminary chalk drawing of this portrait, done in 1779, is now in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge (listed in the artist's sketch books, 2nd Series, Vol. 5, no. 12; see G. C. Williamson, John Downman, A.R.A., London 1907, p. 1iv, illustrated plate 35).  A sketch of William and Isabella's older brothers, Benjamin and Lewis, was also done in 1779 (ibid, p. 1iv, no. 11, illustrated plate 29), as well as sketches of Benjamin senior and his wife (ibid, p. 1xii, nos. 297 and 302).