Mary Duncan

Original canvas. There is a faint craquelure pattern, most visible to the right of the sitter's head in the background; otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. Under ultraviolet light it is difficult to read the surface conclusively. There appear to be a few small areas of retouchings in the background of the upper half of the picture and one to the sitter's hair. Also a spot near lower left edge and to the sitter's right hand. Held under glass in a dark stained and gilt composite frame; unexamined out of 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."

Mary Duncan studied at the Bromley School of Art and carried on her artistic education at the Slade School in London and then in Paris. Duncan moved to Dublin c.1910 and became good friends with Irish artist Estella Solomons. The pair would go on to exhibit together throughout their artistic careers, both moving within the literary and artistic circle of Dublin when she would have met Jack. During the 1920s Duncan exhibited frequently at the RSA, RA, and primarily at the RHA. In 1922 she returned to England and opened a studio for a short while at Bushey, Hertfordshire before moving to Cornwall in 1927, where she remained for the rest of her life. She continued to exhibit in Dublin, Edinburgh and London until 1953.