Studio of Sir Godfrey Kneller

There is a little more clarity than the caalogue illustration would suggest. The canvas has been relined and the paint surface appears to be in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint except for some very minor abrasions visible upon close inspection in the background centre left. There is also evidence of surface dirt including a minor white mark lower left as can be seen in the catalogue illustration, and there are also some minor old flecks of retoucing and very minor infilling to an old craquelure centre right. Examination under ultraviolet reveals the presence of a thick varnish which impedes inspection however there appears to have been little intervention. Overall the picture is in good country house condition. Offered in a grand George II carved gilt wood rococco frame in good condition with some minor old losses, to the filigree upper left and the protruding centrepiece, centre right as can be seen in the catalogue illustration.
"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."

Lieutenant-General James Barry, 4th Earl of Barrymore had a distinguished military career gaining the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in 1688 in the service of the army of William of Orange. He fought at the Battle of Almanza on 25 April 1707, where he was taken prisoner. He gained the rank of Major-General in 1709 acceding to the rank of Lieutenant-General in 1710/11.