A fine portrait typical of Dahl''s mature style. Painted within a feigned oval, the sitter is relaxed but views us with a direct gaze, The high quality carved and giltwood frame is the original.MICHAEL DAHL (1659-1743) was born in Stockholm; after studying in Paris, Rome and Frankfurt he settled in London in 1689. He soon became the best patronised portrait painter in England after Kneller. He was much employed at the Court painting many portraits; a great patron of the 1690s was the Duke of Somerset, for whom he painted the series of portraits of Court ladies known as the ''Petworth Beauties''.His style is extremely close to Kneller but his interpretation of character is less brash and more human.SIZE: 37.75 x 32.75 x 2.25 inches.PROVENANCE: A copperplate hand written inscription ''***well Adams'' Old label verso identifying the sitter as a member of the Adams family. A Ston Easton inventory sticker P23.Consigned to Christies from a Hull private collection....