RICHARD COSWAY, R.A (1742-1821)
Portrait miniature of a Lady, possibly Maria Eleanor Villiers, nee Forbes, Countess of Clarendon (1759-1844), wearing dress with ‘Van Dyck’ collar, bows and pearls, her hair powdered
circa 1780
Watercolour on ivory (licence GGER6PGQ)
Oval, 31mm (1.2ins) high
Gold metal frame with fausse montre top, the reverse glazed to reveal hair
£4,000
There are several reasons for the popularity of what came to be known as 'Vandyke' dress in portraiture in the mid-eighteenth century. One reason was the influence of Sir Anthony Van Dyck himself, whose work was much admired and imitated by eighteenth-century painters, such as Gainsborough and Cosway. Another was the prevalence of masked balls and masquerades, where attendees often wore fancy dress. There was a growing awareness of and interest in history in the mid-eighteenth century, particularly the events of the previous century. The beheading of Charles I during the Civil Wars led to him being seen as a martyr, a romantic and tragic figure who captured the hearts and imaginations of many.
Whatever the reason for the sitter’s choice of dress here, it would have been noted as extremely fashionable – especially with the starched collar and slashed sleeves. This is also Cosway beginning to really get into his stride as an artist – the 1780s were when his friendship with the future George IV, who gave the artist his royal appointment in 1785. This connection introduced Cosway to the rich and fashionable circles who fawned around the Prince of Wales. His artistic response was the confident handling of watercolour, leaving some patches of ivory bare (this can be seen in this example quite clearly) and working quickly to produce a ‘snapshot’ of character, while all the time flattering his important clientele.
[1] Previously with Philip Mould & Co..
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shipping TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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.
See Section 7.5 in Terms & Conditions for information on export/import regulations.
Please contact us to discuss shipping options.
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.
See Section 7.5 in Terms & Conditions for information on export/import regulations.
Please contact us to discuss shipping options.
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