David Martin

The catalogue illustration is fairly representative and the painting appears to be in good condition, with no major extant damage or loss of paint. There is one small chip of paint loss in the lower left, visible in the catalogue illustration, and there is one minor surface scratch in the background, upper right. The canvas has been lined, however the surface is not abraded and there is some impasto in the highlights. There appears to be some overprint to the neck, though this does not fluoresce under ultraviolet light. Further examination under ultraviolet light reveals a small amount of very minor flecks of retouching to the background along the very upper edge of the canvas, and an opaque varnish overall. Held in a neo-classical style 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.
"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."

A Scottish poet, writer and politician, Macpherson is best known as the 'translator' of the Ossian cycle, published in 1761 under the title Fingal, an Ancient Epic Poem in Six Books, a work that, despite its dubious origin, is credited with doing more to bring about the romantic movement in Europe than any other. In addition to his literary work Macpherson served as secretary to the colonial governor of Florida, George Johnstone, and, on his return to Britain, the London agent of the Nawab of Arcot and MP for Camelford.