Lot 595: LEMUEL FRANCIS ABBOTT | Portrait of Aubrey, Earl of Burford, later 6th Duke of St. Albans (1765 - 1815)

oil on canvas

208.9 by 126.4 cm.; 82 1/4  by 49 3/4  in.

oil on canvas

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is stable. An even and only very slightly discoloured varnish is visible. There are no major damages visible, although there are some tiny losses at the lower left due to frame abrasion. The varnish flouresces opaque under ultraviolet light. Very little is revealed by way of restoration, apart from some very old minor restoration at the left-hand side of the face. Otherwise very few scattered retouchings are visible. The work appears to be in excellent overall condition. The lot is offered in an English carved and gilt eighteenth-century style 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."

D. Adamson and P.B. Dewar, The House of Nell Gwyn, London 1974, reproduced opp. p.111.

By descent from the sitter to Charles, 13th Duke of St Albans (1915 - 1988);
By whom sold, London, Christie's, 23 June 1978, lot 122.