A highly decorative and sensitively rendered late 17th/early 18th century oval portrait of a lady attributed to Michael Dahl (1659-1743). Housed in its likely original carved and gilded antique frame, this attractive portrait is typical of the formula Dahl used for his head-and-shoulders images of beauties. It is also a shining example of Dahl''s work, at a time when he was in direct competition with the eminent portraitist Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723). The as yet unknown sitter is depicted against a dark background. Light enters from the right and casts an extravagant shadow, a technique that helps accentuate both the curve of the model''s neck and the elegant turn of her head. The sweep of her hair is held in place by shimmering pearl hair ornaments. Within the oval shape of the canvas, this portrait has been carefully conjured to produce a magnificent and striking image. The deft handling of the sitters'' ruffled white chemise, and the lively way in which her silk cost...