English School oil on canvas half-length portrait of a gentleman in black coat and white tie. He holds a pair of glasses in his right hand and a book lies open to his left. Unsigned. Percy G. Beer, Southsea, Hampshire, England dealer's label affixed to back of stretcher. Housed in a likely later painted and giltwood frame. Sight: 29" H x 24" W. Frame: 40" H x 34 1/4" W. Early 19th century.

CONDITION: Canvas has been lined. Craquelure throughout and superficial grime. 3" blister with retouching to upper center and scattered retouching throughout, especially to drapery and to hand, 5" L. Minor loss to lower right corner. Frame with cracking, discoloration, and minor gilt loss.