Watercolor on ivory, signed initials and dated 1756 to left edge, a masterful early rendering by the artist depicting a noble gentleman in a red coat seated and playing the mandolin, presented behind glass within a conforming oval bifold case.

Case 2 3/4 x 2 1/2 in.; Painting 2 3/8 x 2 1/8 in.

Collection of a Gentleman

Leslie Antiques, Ltd.

Born in London, Samuel was the son of the former Mayor of Galway, and brought up to be in the medical profession. However, he instead followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Francis Cotes (1726-1770), who was celebrated in his day as a leading portrait painter alongside Thomas Gainsborough. Francis specialized in portrait miniatures, and exhibited the Society of Artists from 1760, and at the Royal Academy from 1769-1789. Examples of Samuel's work can be found at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Good estate condition; upper right background with surface rubbing/possible retouch; case with some surface wear and misshaping, will not close.

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