Godfrey Kneller (1646 – 1723) cerchia

Godfrey Kneller (Lübeck 1646 – London 1723) circle of Pair of portraits of 18th-century English spouses William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield (1705 – 1793) and Lady Elizabeth Finch (?) Oils on canvas (76 x 63 cm - Framed 91 x 77 cm) A pair of English spouses is immortalized in our two portraits, both dressed in a neat but not excessively flashy way, revealing their belonging to an aristocratic family or the high bourgeoisie, presumably from London in the early 18th century. The portrayed subjects pose naturally while observing the viewer, aware of their rank, while their lips are moved by a delicate smile, in adherence to the pictorial custom of the time which, to express a feeling, required painters to hint at emotions, without making them explicit, and therefore vulgar. Although there are no inscriptions that reveal the identities of those portrayed, based on a comparison with some prints of the time we are inclined to recognize William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield (1705 – 1793), judge, politician, British lawyer, best known for his reforms of English law. Considered the most prominent British jurist of the 18th century, Mansfield's decisions reflected the Enlightenment and led the country towards the abolition of slavery. Beside him is his wife, Lady Elizabeth Finch, youngest daughter of Daniel Finch, 2nd Earl of Nottingham and 7th Earl of Winchilsea, and Anne Hatton. This is a type of portrait requested by the nobility, especially English, between the 17th and 18th centuries, where those portrayed loved to see themselves devoid of their ornaments, without pompous clothes, fashionable accessories or elaborate hairstyles, this to demonstrate that their status and their value did not depend solely on the material wealth exhibited with opulence. The paintings can be easily associated with an English painter active in the early 18th century, in particular from the school of Sir Godfrey Kneller, official painter of the court of England and considered, together with Peter Lely and Willem Wissing, among the masters of English portraiture between the 17th and 18th centuries. Among these, the painter James Worsdale (1692 - 1767) and Charles Jervas (1675 - 1739) deserve mention. He painted every British sovereign in office from King Charles II to King George I, as well as the most important figures in British society and public life. These works, publicly displayed in royal palaces, were admired and so appreciated by the public, that they induced a large number of clients, mainly nobles, to want his workshop to take care of their family portraits. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The works are sold complete with 2 pleasant golden wooden frames and are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and guarantee. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to see the painting in the gallery in Riva del Garda, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works. Contact us, without obligation, for any further information. Follow us also on: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/