Conrad Dressler

Offered Sotheby's London, 23 November 1982, lot 233

National Portrait Gallery website http://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portraitExtended/mw05511/John-Ruskin [accessed 5 November 2017]

Overall, the condition of the terracotta is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a slip to the surface which may conceal some condition points. There are minor chips to the terracotta, including to the edges and corners of the base, in particular to the bottom edge and to the side of the base on the proper left side. There is some dark paint residue to a small lock of hair above the proper right ear. There are a few minor specks of dirt, including to the nose and to the front of the base. There are a few very minor firing fissures to the forehead.
"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."

Ruskin sat for Dressler in 1883-1884. The original clay bust was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1885 and three plaster casts, each signed and dated 1885, were made. The present terracotta is one of only two terracotta casts made, the other, dated 1885, is now in Tate Britain (inv. no. N02242). A bronze reduction is in the National Portrait Gallery (inv. no. NPG 2030).