Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 15 July 1955, lot 154, for £80 to Agnew;
With Thomas Agnew and Sons Ltd., London;
With Simon Dickinson Ltd., London;
From whom acquired by the present owners.

E. Waterhouse, The Dictionary of British 18th Century Painters in oils and crayons, Woodbridge 1981, p. 403, reproduced.

The canvas is lined, the paint surface is clean and the varnish is clear and even. There are some visible retouchings to disguise the appearance of craquelure, for example in the foreground lower right and throughout her flesh tones. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals these, as well as extensive retouchings in her proper left arm and hand, and further retouchings scattered throughout the background, most notably in the tree to the left of the sitter, and in the sky upper right. In overall good condition. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in very good condition.
"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."