Joseph Highmore

The canvas has been relined and the paint surface is dirty, with a rather discoloured varnish. A vertical restored scratch runs from the top of the canvas, upper right, almost down the length of the picture; parts of the restoration are now lifting and there is a vertical loss measuring 1 cm. Another restored right-angled damage, perhaps a tear, runs through the sitter's arm. There are scattered minor pinprick losses throughout the paint surface, and in a patch of rather more pronounced craquelure in the crook of the sitter's elbow is another slight area of lifting. There is some frame abrasion on the lower and right margins, particularly in the lower right corner. There are some old, discoloured patches of restoration in the sitter's hand, arm, in her sleeve, at the top of her chair and in the background. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals the restoration in these areas as well as in the two lines of damage. The sitter herself, and particularly her face, are largely untouched.
"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."