Attributed to Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt.

The canvas has an old relining that has pressed the paint surface. There is craquelure throughout the dark pigments of the background, and on her dark mantle, in her décolletage, her cheek and forehead. But her face remains very lovely, with an elegant brow, full lips and beautifully conveyed dimples and a fine complexion. There is a large area of blanched repair in the lower right corner and extending up the right edge. Also a much smaller area in the lower part of the fountain in the left background. There are some smaller discoloured retouching, one by the frame in the lower right centre and lower right corner. The paint is slightly lifting along the lines of craquelure in the upper left corner, but it is not critical. Inspection under UV light reveals a repair to a 5 cm horizontal tear in the upper right of the composition by the foliage, and another small repair by the frame directly adjacent. There is restrengthening to the wall in the right background, and to the fountain area in the left background. Further small repairs in the lady's neckline and sleeve, to the dog's forehead, a circular repair on the lady's forehead and between her fingers. There is old infilling of craquelure throughout the upper part of the painting, and some tiny repairs scattered throughout. This lot is offered in an old gilt frame, the gilt partially faded, and with a number of small knocks to the plaster mouldings.
"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."