Sir William Quiller Orchardson, R.A., H.R.S.A.

Proctor-Pearson Gallery, Manchester, where purchased in 1971 by the present owner

Possibly, Glasgow, Institute of the Fine Arts, 1911, no.102, as What Shall I say to Him?

The canvas has been lined. There are some areas of fine craquelure visible to the figure's clothing. Some further very fine craquelure in the background visible only upon close inspection. There are some very minor specks of paint loss along the upper edge and in the lower right hand corner. There is some surface dirt visible throughout. UV light inspection reveals some retouching to the figure's clothing and face. There are touches around the figure's head and an area of retouching to the staircase to the left of the figure's dress. There are areas of retouching to the background, notably along the lower and upper edges with some further touches elsewhere. More accurate reading is obscured by a layer of opaque varnish. Held in a gilt, composite frame.
"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."