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Charles Henry Hart, Esq. July 7th, 1916. Page #2

not only necessitated the keenest investigation and most careful study on our part, and particularly by our Mr. Joseph Duveen who has made this branch of art a special study, but has given us an unusual education on the subject and the very best advantages for qualifying as experts on the works of this great Master. Even had we not known the history of this Bust, we should have had no hesitation in certifying it over our signature, and with our full financial responsibility, as one of the very greatest works of the Master; and we are dependent not only upon our judgment, inasmuch as the quality, authenticity, and fineness of this Bust are matters conceded by every recognized European authority as being beyond dispute. This Bust is well known by every collector and deal in the great capitals of Europe, and particularly in Paris, as being unrivaled of any bust of a lady ever executed by Houdon. It is even said [H.365.009]