Leeds, City Art Gallery, Exhibition of Works of Art, 1868

STRUCTURE The panel has been backed with canvas but appears to be in good condition. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in fairly good condition. There is faintly visible restoration to a panel join, running vertically through the centre of the painting and there is later strengthening in the face. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light confirms the retouching to the vertical panel join mentioned above, as well as revealing scattered minor flecks of retouching in the face and, to a lesser extent, in the costume of the sitter. There is an area of retouching on the left, above the sitter's shoulder, and a large area in the upper right and lower right hand corner. There is also strengthening in the fur collar. FRAME Held in a dark, painted wooden frame. For further information regarding this lot please contact Mark Griffith-Jones (0207 293 5083) or Emmeline Hallmark (0207 293 5407) mark.griffithjones@laitexier.com emmeline.hallmark@laitexier.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 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."

The sitter in this portrait is similar to the acknowledged portraits of Thomas Cromwell (National Portrait Gallery, London).