Henrique José da Silva

Painting with white horse : The painting is relined. Thin craquelures appear on the surface. Under UV light, a repaint is visible in the upper left, another one from above the model's right arm to the bottom of the red vest with a small interruption on the arm, another one on the horse's "chest" to his front leg; a few small repaints scattered on the surface. Painting with the brown horse : The painting is relined. This craquelures appear on the surface. Under UV light, a long repaint is visible in the sky on the right, perhaps due to an old tear (irregular form) with small repaints on the side ; a few repaints alongside the frame ; a small scratch by the horse's head. Good overall condition.
"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."

In 1811, William Beresford is in command of an Anglo-portuguese and Spanish army against the French army under Maréchal Soult. On May 16th 1811, the French forces are defeated. The British officers portrayed here are probably shown after their victory. They are both wearing the sash Order of the Bath with its medal and the Portuguese Order of the Tower and of the Sword medal.