Lot 02

Unknown author PORTRAIT OF A LADY

Portrait of a high-profile lady in an elegant black dress, dominated by a high circle with a sewn reticella. On her chest rests a massive golden pendant inlaid with jewels. This refined method of painting was very popular and often depicts the sitter in a very flattering way - seemingly conferring a certain range of morals and virtues. The cultural significance of the black colour of the dress has been considerable since the Middle Ages. Painterly ingenuity is manifested in the small details that confer wealth and status on the person concerned. The painting is accentuated by a highly ornamental frame with richly carved foliage.