The sitter holds a sprig of jasmine, which also comes through the stone aperture to her left; in the language of flowers white jasmine signifies an amiable nature and is famous for its heady, intoxicating scent.
Elizabeth Thorold (pronounced 'Thurrald') was the daughter of Sir Anthony Thorold of Marston and Blankney, High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in 1617 and his wife Elizabeth Molyneux of Haughton, Nottinghamshire.
The Thorolds were an ancient family of considerable standing with large estates.
As sole heir of Sir Anthony, Elizabeth was extremely wealthy and a very desirable marriage prospect.
She married Sir William Widdrington, 1st Baron Widdrington, and bore him eight children.
SIR PETER LELY (1618 - 1680) was the most important portraitist in the reign of Charles ll, although he had painted portraits throughout the Commonwealth. Principal Painter to the King, he painted everyone of importance, maintaining a busy and active Studio to help with the huge demand for his portraits. Members of his Circle, many of them talented artists in their own right, emulated his style to supply this constant market.
SIZE: 47.5 x 38 inches canvas.
57.5 x 48 inches inc. frame
PROVENANCE:
by descent in the Thorold family to John Thorold.
Removed from Syston Hall, nr. Grantham (demolished in 1923), one of the seats of the Thorolds.
VERSO: Old handwritten label - "Sir P. Lely, Painter.
Elizabeth Thorold, First Lady Widdrington. No. 3 Gallery".
A further inscription is on a gilt plaque attached to the frame: "Elizabeth Thorold daughter of Sir Anthony Thorold Knt. of Marston and Blankney. High Sheriff of Lincolnshire 1617; by Sir Peter Lely"
Roy and nadine precious: specialists in portraiture from the 16th to the 20th century. Established in 1972.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art Profile Page
Sold....portrait of Elizabeth Thorold, Later Lady Widdrington; Circle of Sir Peter Lely.
