This fine early 18th-century half-length portrait depicts a young lady wearing a silk wrapping gown in chartreuse over a white linen smock. She’s presented in a feigned oval.

Probably once commissioned for a fine country house, this sensitive portrayal deftly captures the sitter’s kindly spirit. With her right arm cradling a beloved pet, she looks out towards the viewer with grace and tenderness.

Over her right shoulder stands a classical column, included as a partial framing device and to indicate the dignified status of the lady’s family.

Stylistically, the portrait resembles the oeuvre of the French artist Charles d'Agar (1669–1723), the son of Jacques d'Agar. He lived predominantly in England from around 1691 and it’s conceivably a work that originated in his studio.

Held within an early 18th-century carved frame with strapwork and lotus flowers on the top edge, acanthus leaf corners, and a centred husk ornament, which is probably original.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 32” x 37” / 82cm x 94cm
Year of creation: c. 1710
Provenance: Private collection, UK.
Condition: Cleaned. Revarnished. Canvas relined. Faint stretcher mark. Fine craquelure throughout. The paint layer is stable. Darkening of the pigments. Areas of previous restoration. Frame in good condition with minor age-related wear.
Our reference: BRV2043