This sublime work is an outstanding example of French portraiture from the 1660’s. It abounds with ingenious flourishes and demonstrations of the painter''s skill; the rendering of the face and hands is striking and as is the portrayal of the sumptuous fabrics and their decorative richness. The sfumato technique employed in the hand and the pearls affords a softness which is utterly beautiful – the same technique is used for the curl of hair on the forehead. These elements are a virtuosic handling of paint. The graceful pose, sumptuous costume, rich colours, and brilliant technique are distinctive features of this portrait and it was a type that was in great demand during the 17th century as it is today. The reverse of the canvas is inscribed “bonne de Maussabe remy” and the portrait is contained within a carved and gesso 17th century frame. This is a superb portrait that Titan Fine Art are proud to offer.The portrait represents Marie Mancini (1639-1715) who was the third of ...