Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art has dated this piece to the 1700s.
A good quality early 18th century portrait by a member of Kneller's Circle, or possibly his Studio.
The artist, not as yet identified, had considerable talent.
Wool, the source of his wealth.

SIR GODFREY KNELLER (1646 - 1723) was the most profound influence on late 17th and 18th c. portraiture. By 1679 he had painted the King and remained the most famous and successful portrait painter in England; in 1688 he was appointed Principal Painter to the King. He maintained a busy studio with talented assistants to help with the demand for his work.

SIZE:58 x 48 inches inc. frame.
The frame is in basically good condition, with some signs of damage at the front, and there are a large number of old and inactive woodworm holes to the back. These do not affect the integrity of the frame and are harmless. Extensive losses to the gilt.
PROVENANCE: This portrait, with others of the same family, hung for many years in a large house in Essex until December 2009.
Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art has dated this piece to the 1700s.
Roy and nadine precious: specialists in portraiture from the 16th to the 20th century. Established in 1972.
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