MARY BEALE (1633-99) was born Mary Cradock, daughter of the Rev.
She was already known as a painter by 1654 and she was strongly influenced by Sir Peter Lely, Principal Painter to the King and famous Court and Society portraitist.
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Lely was a friend of Mrs.Beale and she sometimes copied his work and frequently used his poses in her portraits.
She often depicts a stone oval heavily sculpted with fruit or flowers. The sitter's eyes tend to be almond shaped and her colouring pure and rich.
It was most unusual for a woman to take up a professional career as an artist at this time, but her studio thrived; her most active period was the 1670s and early '80s. Mary Beale died at Pall Mall and is buried in St. James's Church, Piccadilly.
SIZE: 36 x 30.5 inches inc. frame.
30.25 x 25.5 inches (canvas)
PROVENANCE: Collection of the late Dr. William Lindsay Gordon.
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 a Gentleman C.1675; Circle of Mary Beale
