Mrs Anne Mee

wearing the uniform of the Grenadier Company of the 3^{rd Foot Guards, gold frame set with half pearls, glazed reverse with hair locks}  

Hans Freiherr von Reitzer, Vienna

Bourgoing 1928, pl. 29;
Foskett 1979/1989, p. 319, pl. 87E

Ivory ground. This miniature is in very good colour condition. Generally the surface is excellent save some very minor rubbing to the ground in the background beside the sitter's left shoulder. The glass has one or two surface scratches in the centre on the reverse the simulated seed pearl monogram has been crudely restored making the letters difficult to read.
"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 miniature is based on a portrait of Grosvenor by John Hoppner, exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1795 (no. 167 as Portrait of an Officer).

The sitter was the second son of Thomas Grosvenor, of Swell Court, and grandson of Sir Robert Grosvenor, 6^th Bt. Ensign, 3^rd Foot Guards, 1779; Lieutenant and Captain, 1784, he retired as a General in 1819.

Although this miniature appears to be framed in its original setting, the glazed reverse incorporates a blue glass plaque applied with a later modified monogram, including the initial C. While it would be more normal to expect the initials to correspond with those of the sitter, in this instance it appears that the recipients initials were used instead.

We would like to thank Andrew Cormack for his help with cataloguing this lot.