Nathaniel Dance R. A.

Canvas has been laid down on board and is pressed as a result. Paint surface is quite abraded and thin in some areas due to over-cleaning, such as in tree branch just above and left of sitter's head, in her hair, right side of her shawl, and in much of the background. Heavy craquelure is noticeable mostly in whites. Despite this, the painting still reads reasonably well and presents a lovely and very decorative image. Ultraviolet reveals what appears to be a small old compound tear through branch of the tree. There are some scattered retouches in the background but figure itself looks very good with only some small dots of repaint in hair and right temple and a few other tiny areas of retouches to an area of her costume. It appears that there are possible retouches to her chest and arms, but these do not fluoresce. In an ornately carved wood frame with some minor nicks.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The sitter was possibly one of the daughters-in-law of James Fitzgerald, 1st Duke of Leinster and Emilia Mary, daughter of Charles, 2nd Duke of Richmond and Lennox.