James Smetham

By descent from the artist to Dennis Smetham with whom remained until 1977;
Fine Art Society, London where purchased by a private collector;
Sotheby's, 28 September 1988, lot 169 where purchased by the present owner

Susan P. Casteras, James Smetham - Artist, Author, Pre-Raphaelite Associate, 1995, p.86

The canvas has been lined. There is craquelure throughout to the surface. The canvas is covered with an opaque layer of varnish, however under UV light there are some re-touchings apparent which can also be seen with the naked eye. There are some touches to the skin tones of the chest, hands and neck, with a small area to her cheek, and further isolated touches in places to the back ground. Within a carved and gilded frame.
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Pandora was painted c.1865 when Smetham spent a day every week in Rossetti's studio in Cheyne Walk. The model was Ellen Smith who was often painted by Rossetti at this time, for example A Christmas Carol (sold in these rooms, 4 December 2013, lot 48).