SIR WILLIAM ORPEN, R.W.S., N.E.A.C., R.A., R.H.A. | Miss Dorothy Stiles

Edinburgh, Royal Scottish Academy, 1916, no.229;
London, The Fine Art Society, British Portraits, 1918, no.3

Original canvas. Some areas of very faint craquelure in the background, visible only on close inspection. Some rubbing and abrasion to the left hand framing edge. Otherwise the work apperas to be in very good overall condition and is clean and ready to hang. UV light inspection reveals some inflillig to the craquelure in the background. There is an area of retouching to the left of the figure's arm, a few other minor areas of retouching to the background around the figure. There are a few spots of retouching to the figure's lower half and some possible old retouching to the figure's face. However, more accurate reading is obscured by a heavy layer of opaque varnish. Held in an impressive gilt frame and slip.
"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."

The present painting was commissioned by Dolly's parents Sir Harold and Lady Stiles to mark their daughter's 21st birthday. Orpen was a family friend and stayed with them when painting the portrait. The painting demonstrates Orpen's vigorous and painterly style. Dorothy grew up in the Scots medical world. A companion portrait by Orpen indicates that she was a keen golfer at a time when, following the example of Margot Asquith, it became fashionable for young women to practice the sport. There were a number of important courses near the Stiles’ family home at Whatton Lodge, Gullane in East Lothian. She was one of Gullane Ladies Golf Club's most prominent members. She was Hon Sec in 1913 aged 18, Captain in 1929-30 and again in 1947-48. She was made Honorary Member in 1972.  Dolly's status at the club can be judged from her being the only person to have been Captain twice and that the companion portrait was used for the cover of the GLGC centenary history.