Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt.

STRUCTURE The canvas has not been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good overall condition. There are two minor canvas creases running parallel from top to bottom approx. 15 cm. in from the left and right hand edges of the canvas. There is evidence of a thick uneven layer of discoloured varnish overall. There is no visible damage or paint loss except for a minor diagonal abrasion in the lower left hand corner measuring approx. 4 cm. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light confirms the opacity of the varnish as well as revealing minor areas of retouching to the creases mentioned above. There is some further very minor scattered retouching throughout the background and to the dress and evidence of infilling to old craquelure in the sitter's chest. FRAME Held in a and plaster gilt frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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."

The sitter was the daughter of Thomas, 3rd Earl of Elgin. In 1707 she married George Brudenell, 3rd Earl of Cardigan of Deene Park, Northamptonshire. It was through the marriage that the Tottenham estate passed to the Brudenell family following her brother's death in 1747.