Lot 193

Please note the amended attribution and related information now given in the online catalogue.

Examination under u.v. light reveals later paint to the whole of the proper right side of the face and much of the forehead. There is no corresponding damage evident to the reverse of the canvas. Under normal room light, the repainting to the face appears as a variation in the tone of the paint (as is visible in the catalogue photos).

There is an area of repair and repainting (around 10 x 10cm) within the right-most part of the skirt of the dress, patched to the reverse; not conspicuous (the repainting well matched), visible at closer inspection as a variation in the paint layer.

There is a further small repair (about 3 x 3cm) within the curtain swag upper left, patched to the reverse.

Otherwise, excepting one or two other possible small points of retouching, the paint layer appears to be original. It is evenly cracked throughout the upper half of the work but not obtrusively so and with no loss or apparent instability other than a small (1cm) area in the background a few centimetres above left of the sitter's head.

The surface of the work is dirty, with many small spots of surface dirt scattered across the work.

The frame, which is of about the same period as the work and might be original to it, is in generally condition consistent with age and type, with a few small losses and general wear.



The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.

A private Melbourne institutional collection