Lot 42
  • 42

Andrew Plimer

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description

  • Andrew Plimer
  • Portrait of William, 5th Duke of Devonshire (1748-1811)
  • signed with initials u.l.: A.P / 1786 

  • 5.8 by 4.9 cm.; 2 5/16 by 1 15/16 in.
after Sir Joshua Reynolds, wearing a brown coat with a high collar, silver and silver-gilt frame set with circular-cut diamonds

Provenance

The Cavendish family;
E.M. Hodgkins, by 1903

Literature

Williamson 1903, pp. 41-2, illustrated facing p. 22;
Williamson 1904, vol. I, pl. LXII, fig. 2  

Condition

Ivory ground. This miniature is in good condition. The irregular surface of the paint used in conjunction with gum arabic is the artist means of reproducing the oil paint of the original composition. The diamonds are worth approximately £800-1,200.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The miniature is a copy of Sir Joshua Reynold's 1775 portrait (Spencer collection, Althorp Park, Northamptonshire; see Mannings 2000, cat. no. 227, fig. 1163). It is interesting to note how Plimer has sought to replicate the dark tones and varnished surface of the original painting, which has resulted in an uncharacteristically tenebrous work.