Studio of Peter Lely (1618-1680)
This three-quarter length portrait is possibly of Lucy Brydges, (b. early 1650s, d. 1689), who was the wife of Adam Loftus, the first Viscount Lisbourne.
Lely’s studio in London was large, employing many artists, and due to their prolific output Lely himself would often only paint the sitter’s head, whilst his staff completed the portrait in one of a series of accepted poses.
It would not be unusual for the subject to have more than one portrait painted, as they would often give their pictures to friends or family (a bit like photographs are given now).
Contained in a late 17thcentury carved and gilded frame, which could be the original.
London, circa 1680.
Width 32 inches by height 37 inches.
Ref 2019
