Jacques-Laurent Agasse

Mrs Johnson

Possibly Sir Walter Gilbey, Bt., Animal Painters of England, Vol.III, 1911, p.18 under the account book for 1849 (Replica of the 'Visit to the Farm')

STRUCTURE The work is on a single piece of panel with no apparent cracks or damages. PAINT SURFACE The work would appear to be in generally very good condition. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals only the slightest touches of repaint. FRAME Held in a gilt wood frame with plaster decoration.
"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."

This picture was owned by Mrs Johnson who is mentioned in Guy Paget's The Melton Mowbray of John Ferneley. Sarah Johnson's artistic interests were "very artistic, and she and a little company of taste formed a set that met monthly in each other's houses, and over a simple fare of roast beef, apple tart, Stilton cheese, ale and port, discussed pictures and things artistic" (Sir W. Gilbey, lit.op.cit, p.114).