Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Originally an oval, the painting was made rectangular probably in the 18th or 19th century.
This is a typical portrait of the period; the lady regards the viewer with a quiet confidence, her hair in the fashionable style as is her 'undress'. The robe open to show her chemise, and a silk wrap draped over one shoulder...this relaxed style of dressing for one's portrait was encouraged by artists as it was a lot easier and quicker to paint than elaborate formal daywear.
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. He has a quieter but somehow more understanding appeal to character which relies on its own integrity to make its impact, and this unknown artist, emulating his style has managed to catch some of that.
SIZE: 33 x 27 x 2.5 inches including frame.
PROVENANCE: West Yorkshire Private Collection.
Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
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
Portrait of a Lady C.1710: Follower of Michael Dahl.
