Sir Gerald Kelly, P.R.A.

Lady Kelly, the artist's wife, her sale Christie's, 8 February 1980, lot 155 (with another portrait);
Private collection

STRUCTURE Original canvas. There are a few minor scuff marks near the centre of the left edge and a few minor and isolated spots of staining across the canvas. There is some general surface dirt, otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT UV light reveals an opaque varnish and one or two spots fluoresce but these appear to correspond with surface stains. FRAME Held in a mock tortoise-shell frame. Please telephone the department on 0207 293 5718 if you have any questions about the present work.
"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."

Jane was the nick-name given to Kelly's wife Lillian (nee Ryan) who he met in 1916 when she was an artist's model. They married in 1920 and therefore the present picture is an early example of the series of many portraits of her. When Queen Mary was introduced to her, she explaimed "Jane, of the many Janes!" such was the fame of Kelly's portraits.