French School circa 1800

Unframed. The paper slightly yellowed, less so at the margins where was protected by a previous mount. There are neatly repaired tears to the upper corners. The image itself is unaffected and the watercolour is fresh.
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 has been identified as Frederick William, Duke of Brunswick (1771-1815). His mother was Princess Augusta of Great Britain and his brother-in-law was George IV. He is wearing the medal of the Order of Saint John, the Black Star of the Eagle of Prussia and another order, thought to be that of the Deathshead Hussars.  On the death of his father in 1806, his duchy was seized by Napoleon and added to the kingdom of Westphalia. Frederick William, with Austrian assistance, formed a free corps called the Black Brunswickers and in 1809 advanced through Germany and recaptured Brunswick. Soon after, however, he was driven out and fled to England. In 1813 he retook Brunswick. He commanded the Black Brunswickers at the Battle of Waterloo and was killed at Quatre Bras on 16 June 1815.