Sir Joshua Reynolds, P.R.A.

Ellis Waterhouse, Reynolds, 1941, p. 43;
David Mannings, Sir Joshua Reynolds, A Complete Catalogue of His Paintings, 2000, Text Volume no. 266, Plates Volume fig. 333

STRUCTURE The canvas has not been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition with no visible signs of damage or paint loss except for some scattered very minor abrasions to the canvas edge in the lower right and to the bottom. There appears to be evidence of an old discoloured varnish and a fine craquelure overall in keeping with it's age. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals extensive retouching to the background concentrated to the left but invisible to the naked eye. There are further very minor areas of retouching to the sitter's eyes and lips and hands, however overall the body and face seem well preserved. FRAME Held in a gilt wood frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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."

The sitter was the second but surviving son of Sir Thomas Brudenell, created 1st Earl of Cardigan at the Coronation of Charles II in 1661, and his wife Mary Tresham. He succeeded his father in 1663 and lived at Deene Park and Cardigan House in Lincoln Inn Fields. He married Mary, daughter of Lord Dunbar, and following her death, Anne Savage. Her children included the notorious Countess of Shrewsbury. He was succeeded by his grandson, George Brudenell who became 3rd Earl of Cardigan. The portrait is based on an original by Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt. at Goodwood which descended to his great granddaughter, the Duchess of Richmond.