Studio of Sir Godfrey Kneller

Anonymous sale, London, Christie’s, 3 April 1987, lot 119 (as Sir Godfrey Kneller and Studio).

J. Ingamells, National Portrait Gallery: Later Stuart Portraits 1685-1714, London 2009, p. 128 (as a version).

In overall good condition. The painting is relined, the paint surface is relatively clean and the varnish is even and only slightly dulled. There is some slight wear in the darker tones, but no major damages visible to the naked eye. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals the thick milky varnish, and scattered, minor retouchings in the background to the left, concentrated around the sitter's proper right elbow, in the embroidered sash, centre, and dotted in the sitter's hand and face.
"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."

This portrait is a version, in reverse, of the painting by Sir Godfrey Kneller at Saltram, Plymouth, which depicts a helmet rather than a crown.¹

1. See Ingamells 2009, p. 128, reproduced.