Portrait of a Lady C.1760; Circle of Jakob Emanuel Handmann (1718-1781)

Oil on canvas.

In this charming 18th century portrait a young lady has been depicted wearing her finest attire including silks, lace, ribbons, and pearls and bows. The time is precisely 3pm according to a pocket watch. Detailed throughout and with an exquisite treatment of drapery - the artist conveyed the texture of the fabrics and how they reflect light. The fluid handling shows all the vigour and style of the European portrait and with the clear fresh palette, the bright eyes and the beautiful rendering. This is a fine example from the circle of Swiss artist Emanuel Handmann. Handmann was a prolific painter who specialised in portraiture and was one of the most successful artists in Bern and was a member of the Academy.

During the period it was fashionable to include the ‘feminine accessory, par excellence’ – the fan. Such was the popularity and importance of a fan during the 18th century that there became a ‘fan language’ and the placement of the fan usually conveyed a message.

A graceful and sensitive portrait. Presented in an excellent condition frame.

Jakob Emanuel Handmann (1718-1781) was a renowned Swiss portrait painter. Having completed study trips to Paris, Rome and Naples, Handmann setup a studio in his native country before becoming one of the most successful, and prolific, in Bern. His work is held in high esteem and is displayed in various museums.

Provenance: An old private collection, Munich

Measurements: Height 96cm, Width 77cm framed (Height 37.75”, Width 30.25” framed)

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