Attributed to Thomas Phillips, R.A.

Captain Courtland Taylor;
Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 7 November 1980, lot 38 (as attributed to A.W. Devis, "Portrait of Monk Lewis"), where purchased by the parents of the present collector.

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting has an old wax lining. The paint layer is most likely a little dirty and the restorations and the lining, could be reexamined to great advantage. The main restoration is addressing a vertical tear which runs from the book being held by the sitter, through his left hand and into the dark window frame. More recent unrestored losses are visible in the lower left and in the left side. The texture of the paint is quite smooth now but the paint layer does not appear to be unduly abraded. More life could be acquired if the lining were to be reversed and the picture cleaned and retouched more accurately.
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.

Although traditionally thought to be a portrait of Matthew "Monk" Lewis, the author of the scandalous 18th century romance novel, The Monk, and friend of Lord Byron, the identification of this sitter as the famous author is uncertain.