Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 1894 (according to undated manuscript Catalogue of Pictures at West Horsley, see literature);
Given by the purchaser to Robert Crewe-Milnes, 1st Marquess of Crewe (1858-1945);
Thence by descent.  

Inventory of Contents of Crewe House, Curzon Street, London, 1913, vol. 1, p. 40, in the boudoir, as by Sir. J. Reynolds;
Manuscript Catalogue of Pictures at West Horsley, n.d., vol. 1, p. 3;
D. Mannings, Sir Joshua Reynolds, A Complete Catalogue of His Paintings, 2 vols., New Haven and London 2000, text volume, p. 152, cat. no. 444b (as a copy).

Offered in an ornate, gilt plaster frame. The picture is dirty, with no extant damage and no signs of retouching under ultra violet light. The frame is glazed.
"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."

A reduced monochrome copy after Reynolds' painting executed between 1769-72 (Private Collection).¹ Frances was the wife of John, 1st Baron Crewe (1742-1829) and one of the best-known whig hostesses of her generation, as well as a celebrated beauty. 

1. See Mannings, op.cit., p. 152, no. 444.