An early 19th century English School oil on canvas. Half-length portrait of a gentleman holding a bell in his right hand, paper in his left hand, possibly an auctioneer, with buildings in the background. No apparent signature. The canvas bears a preparer's stamp in black on the reverse, illegible except for "London". One printed label on the back of the frame, "Cor S. Bailey Esq." hand written, another written name to the left but illegible. The original canvas has new stretchers; five repairs noted to the reverse. Craquelure. Areas of overpainting include hair, left eye/cheek and nose. Varnished. Image 25 x 30", framed 31 x 36" high overall. ESTIMATE $800-1,200

The original canvas has new stretchers; five repairs noted to the reverse. Craquelure. Areas of overpainting include hair, left eye/cheek and nose. Varnished.