Shirley Collection, circa 1932;
Sir Leslie Martin (1809-1999);
thence by descent to the present owner

R. Strong, Tudor & Jacobean Portraits, Vol. I, London 1969, p. 310

STRUCTURE The picture is painted on three oak panels, joined vertically, batoned at the back. The panels are in good condition and are providing a flat, even, steady support for the painting. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition, though it is dry in areas and there is a correspondent fine craquelure throughout. There is some old retouching to the panel joins and some very minor paint loss to the lower left hand panel join but otherwise no apparent damage or major loss of paint. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light confirms the retouching to the two vertical panel joins. There is scattered minor retouching throughout, particularly to two small areas in the sitter's nose, and to the area of background to the right of the sitter's head. There is relatively extensive infilling to the fine craquelure in the dark areas of the costume, particularly the in the fur lapels, and scattered minor retouching in the background, though the lighter pigments of the sitter's doublet and ruff appear to be in apparently very good condition. FRAME Held in a painted period style 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."

The present painting, as with all portraits of Sussex, is based on a portrait attributed to Stephen van der Muelen, painted circa 1565,🔯 though the formula ultimately derives from Antonio Mor. In 1572 Sussex was created Lord Chamberlain, and all portraits painted after that date depict him clutching the white rod of that office꧟, as in the present work. A member of the Privy Council and one of the leading courtiers to both Mary I and Elizabeth I, Sussex was appointed President of the Council of the North in 1568, and served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.