ENGLISH SCHOOL (17th century)
Portrait miniature of a Gentleman, wearing black doublet and white collar trimmed with lace, blue background and gold border
circa 1620
1 cm (³/₈ inch) high
Watercolour and bodycolour on vellum
£3,250
The blue background of this miniature would have been considered rather old fashioned in the first quarter of the 17th century, but was still considered an effective backdrop, particularly on this minute scale. While Hilliard has experimented with his red velvet backgrounds earlier in the 1590s, by the 1620s a more naturalistic approach was being taken, with glimpses of landscape appearing.
This tiny portrait likely originally included a lid, which would have kept the miniature a secret from prying eyes. Often miniatures worn by women were suspended from a silk cord at their neck and tucked into a bodice – although Lady Ayres was caught by Lord Herbert of Cherbury in 1611 admiring a portrait of him which she had worn ‘so low that she hid it under her breasts’. Although we may not be able to identify the sitter, it is clear that this was a treasured image, set into a finely enamelled case. However, the modest size of this work is also a reminder that miniatures were also painted for those not necessarily at the highest echelons of society or part of the aristocratic inner circle at court, but often commissioned by wealthy merchants.
shipping notice
Worldwide shipping is included in all prices.
The Limner Company does not accept any responsibility for import duty, this is to be paid by the buyer.
Some stock items contain materials from endangered species which are governed by CITES regulations and will require a permit to export outside of Great Britain. If a certificate of export is required then this will be the responsibility of and paid for by the buyer .
you may also like