Attributed to Sir William Beechey, R.A.

William Henderson Bland, England;
R. Henderson Bland, New York;
Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby’s, 10 October 1991, lot 193 (as Attributed to James Northcote, R.A.).

The canvas is lined. The painting presents a lovely image with some of its details well preserved, like for example on the impasto in the white neck of her gown at right. There is some minor craquelure with a few really small associated losses, like for example at center right of the sitter, though these appear to be stable. Inspection under UV shows really small spots of retouches scattered on the bottom left corner. Some even smaller spots of filling appear to address the aforementioned craquelure at center right, close to the edge. What could possibly be another minor spot of retouching is at right on the sitter's face, close to her left eye. The painting is enjoyable in its current state, though perhaps a readdressing to the minor losses could improve its appearance. Offered in an decoratively carved gilt wood frame.
"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."