Fine and imposing late 17th century English portrait of a wigged gentleman attributed to (!663-1734). The handsome sitter is depicted three quarter-length, leaning upon a stone ledge in front of an extensive walled architectural background, with an archway and trees beyond.At first glance this charming portrait appears typical of its time. Look closer and the sitter (as yet unknown) wears a the hugest, of fashionable and costly wigs. and it tumbles to below his shoulders! Infact the derivation of ‘big wig’ as a term to describe a person of means and importance comes from fashions like this. A finger white stock tied at the neck and a shimmering russet silk robe are further clues that this is indeed an aristocrat or member of the gentry. Unlike may paintings of the period with their matching power poses and aloof expressions, what really shines from this portrait is the way that the artist has managed to conjure real character. The strength and sensitivity with which the sitter...