Thomas Frye

STRUCTURE The canvas has a firm lining. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition, particularly in the flesh tones, and in the costume. There is some old retouching in the background, upper left, to an old crack in the paint, as well as a small number minor scattered retouchings to small losses in the background, and one in the sitter's hair. Their is a layer of dirt and discoloured varnish overall. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals scattered minor infilling to craquelure and retouching overall, and one area of retouching in the sitters left sleeve. UV also confirms the opacity of the varnish and the layer of dirt. FRAME Held in a carved and gilded wooden 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."