John Vanderbank

Major John W. Meade;
By whose Estate sold ("Sold by Order of the Executors of the Late Major John W. Meade"), London, Christie's, 26 April 1985, lot 88.

The painting has an old glue relining which remains stable. The paint surface over all is in very good condition with minor frame abrasion on the left hand edge and some minor retouching barely visible to the naked eye. Inspection under UV reveals some fine retouching along the craquelure lines in the face and chest, notably under the nose, and scattered, feathered retouching to the sitter's right arm. There appears to have been very little intervention in the background and drapery. Offered in a carved gilt wood frame with some losses.
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 born Mary Lister, the daughter of Matthew Lister of Burwell, Lincoln.  She was married first to Thomas Heardson of Claythorpe and, following his death, married Francis Scott, Earl of Delorain on 29 October 1732.  She died at the age of 32 on 16 June 1737 and is buried in Lincoln Cathedral.