- 24
John William Godward, R.B.A.
Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 GBP
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Description
- John William Godward, R.B.A.
- The Letter (A Classical Maiden)
- signed and dated u.r.: J.W. Godward 99
- oil on canvas
- 57 by 57cm., 22 by 22in.
Provenance
Christie's, 11 July 1969, lot 77 (as by Alma-Tadema);
Christie's, South Kensington, 29 June 2011, lot 159 (as Circle of John William Godward);
Private collection
Christie's, South Kensington, 29 June 2011, lot 159 (as Circle of John William Godward);
Private collection
Literature
Vern Grosvenor Swanson, John William Godward - The Eclipse of Classicism, 1997, probably, p.200, cat.no. 1899.10 as The Letter
Condition
The canvas has not been lined. There are areas where the paint appears thin and spots of discoloured retouching to the figure's face. There appears to be a repaired surface scratch just under the figure's chin which is visible to the naked eye. UV light inspection reveals sports of retouching corresponding to the above and a few minor spots elsewhere. The 'J' in the signature has been strengthened.
Held in a decorative gilded composition 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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
This picture probably depicts Ethel Warwick (1882-1951) a popular model in the late 1890s for Godward, Wilson Steer, Draper and Whistler. A portrait of her by Godward was sold in these rooms (15 July 2015, lot 20).
We are grateful to Vern Swanson for confirming the attribution of this picture.
We are grateful to Vern Swanson for confirming the attribution of this picture.