A framed 17th century painting brings centuries of European portraiture and dramatic historical narrative directly into a room.
Several noble sitters appear perpetually trapped in uncomfortable lace ruffs that must have made dinner parties an absolute endurance test.
![17th Century Portrait Circle of Michael Dahl,of Sir William Cowper [1639-1706]](https://www.sellingantiques.co.uk/photosnew/dealer_countryhousefineart/dealer_countryhousefineart_full_1525617097668-7609063232.jpg)
