A well-executed half-length portrait of a lady painted in a feigned oval, circle of Sir Godfrey Kneller. The use of a feigned oval was a device used in portraiture to give a sense of depth and add an intimacy to the painting, drawing your attention to the sitter.

The subject, posed without her wig in the undressed fashion of the day, wears a blue ermine trimmed blue cloak over a white silk robe held in place by jewelled clasps. She is pictured with pearl girandole earrings and her dress, jewels and bearing indicate this is a noblewoman of some standing, most likely a duchess or countess. At court, pearls were not only demonstrations of social rank but also represented purity. The portrait has clearly been painted by an artist of great ability who has been influenced by Sir Godfrey Kneller.

Sir Godfrey Kneller was a leading portrait painter working in England during the late 17th and early 18th century. He was born in Lubreck, Germany, and studied under Rembrandt. He settled in England in 1676 where he ran a successful studio and became a court painter to the monarchy and members of the aristocracy.

© Benton Fine Art