Portrait of a bibliophile, half-length, seated in a library with a folio, a seal in his left hand
inscribed 'HISTOR. THE FIFTH' (on the book)
oil on canvas in carved and giltwood period frame
The inscription 'HISTOR. THE FIFTH' on the folio in this portrait could relate to a reprint of Shakespeare's Henry V by the likes of a stationer such as Robert Allot or Thomas Cotes (both of whom published the Second Folios of Shakespeare's plays in the 1630s).
CANVAS SIZE: 43¼ x 58 in.
PROVENANCE: Rev. Warrington of Bath; Christie's, London, 30 April 1951, lot 103 as 'Jackson'.
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 Bibliophile; English School, 17th Century
