Henry Howard

Possibly London, British Institution, 1827, no. 18.

The canvas has been relined, slightly flattening the paint surface. The paint surface is clean on the whole, with some minor yellowing in places, perhaps due to a dirty varnish. The reds and blues are rich and vibrant. There are four shallow indentations with resultant paint loss. These are: mid-left edge, a vertical paint loss of approximately 7cm; above the head of Hylas, a vertical paint loss of approximately 15cm; in the head of the male figure, a vertical paint loss measuring approximately 8 cm; at the centre of the lower edge, a vertical paint loss of approximately 3cm. Retouchings are visible at the lower part of Hylas' drapery, a small retouching in the back of the male figure just below the head and in the cloud at lower right. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals an even varnish and minor retouchings to the face of Hylas, mainly infilling of craquelure. The work is offered unframed.
"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."