Lot 77
  • 77

WILLIAM WOOD | Portrait of Lavinia, Countess Spencer (1762-1831)

Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 GBP
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Description

  • Grant Wood
  • Portrait of Lavinia, Countess Spencer (1762-1831)
  • Watercolour and bodycolour on ivory, gold frame set with pearls, glazed hair reverse, later engraved inscription
  • 65 by 55 mm.

Provenance

Thomas Hugh Cobb (d. 1944);
his executor's sale, London, Sotheby's, 12 October 1944, lot 61;
sale, London, Sotheby's, 6 October 1980, lot 174

Literature

Williamson, 1921, p. 290

Condition

Good surface but with very slight fading.
"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

This miniature is recorded in the artist's account book: 'no. 5229. Countess Spencer, in a fancy dress, a turban of white and gold, 5th size, about 27, finished 29th May, 1793, delivered 1 June, 5 guineas.'

The sitter was the eldest daughter of Charles Bingham, 1st Earl of Lucan. Her mother, Lady Lucan, was an accomplished artist who painted portrait miniatures, often copies of earlier works. In 1782 Lavinia married George Viscount Althorp, later 2nd Earl Spencer.