A three-fold painted canvas screen, English school, 18th century and later

with six 18th century portraits depicting Oliver Cromwell and his family, in scrolling and floral cartouches, remounted

Most probably purchased by Major Alexander Beattie 1st husband of Lady Rozelle Raynes, daughter of 6th Earl Manvers, for Thoresby Hall ahead of the house being opened to the public in 1957;
Thence by descent to the present owner.

C W N Stanley, Thoresby Hall, Nottinghamshire, the Seat of the Pierrepont Family and Home of Countess Manvers, Derby, 1971, p. 14, ill. p. 14

In overall reasonable conserved condition. there are scattered losses to the paint which can be seen in the catalogue photograph. The portraits have probably been adapted into a screen. The canvases have been lined. With old marks and scratches to the frame commensurate with age and use.
"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."

As with many families in England the civil war pitted the Pierrpoint generations against one another. Robert Pierrepont, 1st Earl of Kingston-upon-Hull, was a vehement Royalist who won much infamy at the battle of Gainsborough in 1643 for having his troops turn their own cannon on him once he had been captured, blowing him and his round head captors to smithereens. His son Francis Pierrepont (died 1659) however, was a loyal supporter of Oliver Cromwell who served as a colonel in the parliamentary army and was in the Long Parliament. This screen was commissioned by a subsequent member of the family in honour of Francis.