John van der Vaart

The following condition report is provided by Hamish Dewar who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's: Structural Condition The canvas has an old lining which is ensuring a reasonably secure and stable structural support, although there are some areas of slightly raised craquelure particularly around the outer edges and eventually the canvas would need to be relined. Paint surface The paint surface has an even but quite discoloured varnish layer and should respond well to cleaning and revarnishing. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows minimal comparatively recent retouchings, including a small spot in the sky to the left of the sitter, three very small spots on her forehead and a small repair on her flesh tones, just above her white blouse. This retouching measures approximately 2 x 2 cm and has slightly discoloured and is therefore visible in natural light. There may be other retouchings beneath old, opaque varnish layers that are not identifiable under ultraviolet light. Summary The painting is therefore in reasonably good condition and would benefit from cleaning, restoration and revarnishing.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

Miss Catherine Bristow was one of six daughters of Robert Bristow (1688-1737) of Micheldever, Hampshire, and his wife Sarah Warde, daughter of Sir John Ward of Squerryes, Kent. Robert Bristow was the director of the Bank of England from 1713-16, and again from 1718-20.