Portrait of a Lady C.1700, Follower of Michael Dahl (1659–1743)

Stunning bust length oil on canvas portrait of a lady wearing a pale yellow dress with white lace edging and a blue silk wrap c.1700. The slashed sleeves are gathered and tied together with a jewelled string of pearls. The sitter is presented against a stark background; the curve of her neck, enhanced by the dark sweep of hair falling behind, as well as the elegant turn of her head, are features typical of the formula used by Dahl.

In the 1690s and early 1700s Dahl often endowed his portraits with an interesting use of colour, sometimes in unexpected shades. Dahl did not neglect everything but the head as his main rival Kneller often did, and he was more conservative with props which helped to create elegant and graceful images. This portrait is a fine example of the artist’s eloquent court style depiction of aristocratic women and feminine beauty. Presented in an 18th century ebonised frame with gilt moulding.

Michael Dahl (1659-1743) was born in Stockholm, and was a painter of exceptional talent. He studied with David Ehrenstrahl, the leading Swedish portrait painter of his day, before embarking on a tour of Europe in 1682, visiting first London where he spent some time in Kneller's studio. He returned to London where he settled permanently in 1689. He was soon independently successful as a portrait painter, and was second only to Kneller himself in success. His Scandinavian origins ensured patronage from Prince George of Denmark, and Queen Anne and members of the English court. He died in London in 1743 leaving two daughters and about three years before, lost his only son (who was also a painter).

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