William Crosby (1830-1910); "Fair Critics"; oil on canvas; signed indistinctly lower left; titled, signed and dated verso on original label affixed to stretcher: "Fair Critics - A Sketch - W Crosby 1870"; in probably original (restored) Victorian gilt composition and wood frame with gilt slip; 34.5 x 29cm.

PROVENANCE: From a private collection, Yorkshire.

CONDITION: The painting is in good condition, having been lined, cleaned, restored and varnished, probably in the late 1940s or early 1950s by Mawson, Swan and Morgan (label verso); inspection under ultraviolet light reveals minor retouching in places, most noticeably an 8cm line (possibly a restored tear) crossing the bottom of the easel which has partially obscured the end of the signature; there is extensive fine craqueleure; consideration might be given as to whether a light clean and revarnishing is due. The frame has been restored, with a matt gold finish; consideration might be given as to whether water gilding might be more attractive.