VLADIMIR LUKICH BOROVIKOVSKY | Portrait of a Lady

The sitter of the present work has traditionally been identified as Ekaterina Yakovlevna Derzhavina (née Bastidon, 1760-94).

Maria Ivanovna Ponna and Alexander Nikolaevich Kaverzin, Leningrad
Acquired from the above by the parents of the present owner in the 1960s

T.Alexeeva, Vladimir Lukich Borovikovsky i russkaya kul’tura na rubezhe 18-19 vekov, Moscow: Iskusstvo, 1975, p.77, no.35 illustrated b/w, p.345, no.87 listed as Portret neizvestnoy, p.407, no.35 listed

There is a dent with associated paint loss to the lower edge of the zinc. There are further minor dents and nicks along the edges. There is a scratch at the left edge, as well as to the sitter's left shoulder. There are other minor scattered scratches throughout the work. There is a very fine pattern of craquelure in places, most visible on the sitter's face. There are a few very tiny flecks of paint loss: to the sitter's left jawline, to the trees in the lower left, as well as elsewhere. The work is covered in a light layer of dirt. Inspection under UV light reveals retouching to the aforementioned loss at the bottom edge, as well as other minor areas of retouching along the edges. Held in an oval gilt metal frame behind glass. 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.
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