Lot 196
  • 196

SIR THOMAS LAWRENCE, P.R.A. | Portrait of Wilhelmina Bowlby (1798–1834)

Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
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Description

  • Thomas Lawrence
  • Portrait of Wilhelmina Bowlby (1798–1834)
  • oil on canvas
  • 67.3 x 67.3 cm.; 26 1/2  x 26 1/2  in.

Provenance

By descent in the sitter's family to A. Bowlby Esq.;
By whom sold, London, Christie's, 22 June 1979, lot 143, where purchased by another member of the family;
Thence by descent until acquired by the present owner.

Literature

K. Garlick, Sir Thomas Lawrence. A complete catalogue of the oil paintings, Oxford 1989, p. 156, cat. no. 123, reproduced.

Condition

The canvas has a firm relining, the paint surface is clean and the varnish is clear and even. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals a series of old, repaired tears, lower left, the longest of which measures 15 cm. long, as well as small retouchings in the sitter's chest and shoulder, and very fine, sensitively-executed lines of retouching scattered through her face to disguise the network of craquelure. There is also a handful of small retouchings scattered in the background. In overall good condition. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in good condition.
"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

Wilhelmina Martha Arnold Bowlby, known as Martha, was the daughter of Major-General William Balfour of Pilrig, a former Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick. In 1817 she married Captain Thomas Bowlby (1790–1842) of the Royal Artillery in Gibraltar. They lived at Bishopwearmouth in County Durham where, after his military service, Captain Bowlby was active in the timber business. They had nine children. This portrait is a fine example of the artist’s late work. Garlick dated the painting to after 1820 and the sitter's jewellery, dress and hairstyle would indicate a date close to 1825 – just 5 years before Lawrence’s death. Other works by Lawrence from this period include his portrait of the King’s favourite sister, Princess Sophia (Royal Collection, Windsor Castle) and his full-length portrait of Frances Anne, Marchioness of Londonderry with her son Viscount Seaham (Marquess of Londonderry). The contrast of the sitter’s jet-black hair against the rich, red background is a striking effect – perhaps consciously recalling Roman wall-painting at Pompeii, whose excavations were underway at this time.