Studio of Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt. 1646 - 1723

Half length, wearing a red coat and lace jabot with the star and sash of the Order of the Garter

The canvas has been lined. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals some retouching to the sitter's face, as well as some infilling to lines of old craquelure. There is evidence of older retouchings in the background. Held in a plaster moulded frame.
"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 sitter was the son of Horatio Townshend, 1^st Viscount Townshend, and his wife, Mary, daughter of Sir Joseph Ashe.  On 3^rd July 1698 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Pelham, 1^st Baron Pelham.  In 1709 he was appointed by Queen Anne as ambassador to the Hague.  He found equal favour in the reign of George I and was appointed as Secretary of State for the North, and subsequently as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.  During the reign of George II his relationship with Walpole deteriorated until finally he retired from politics.  Thereafter he devoted the remainder of his life to friends, family and his farm.  He championed the value of turnips, which he used as part of his rotation agricultural plan, and which also gained him the soubriquet ‘Turnip Townshend’.