Lot 254: HORACE DE MANARA | Portraits of a Gentleman and a Lady: A Pair

He half length, wearing a black coat, white waistcoat and blue stock; she half length, wearing a white dress trimmed with blue ribbons

oval, each: 74 by 60.5cm., 29 by 24in.

both oil on canvas

(i) The canvas has not been lined. There are some relatively small areas of paint flaking in the upper right and lower left edge, as visible in the catalogue illustration, and some faint stretcher marks along the framing edges and corresponding to the horizontal stretcher bar. Ultra-violet light reveals spots of cosmetic retouching to the left above the bow in the lower edge, in the centre of the neckline and other minor scattered spots throughout. The picture would benefit from some restoration. (ii) The canvas has not been lined and is slightly wavy in the upper half. There is some hairline craquelure visible throughout and faint stretcher marks along the framing edges. Ultra-violet light reveals spots of retouching in the sitter's right shoulder, in the collar to the right and in the background above the sitter's left shoulder and forehead. The picture is overall in good condition and ready to hang. Both presented in decorative gilt frames.
"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."