Claudio Coello (1642-1693)

Portrait of a Spanish Noble Lady

This stunning, large portrait oil painting is attributed to Spanish Old Master Claudio Coello who is considered the last great Spanish painter of the 17th century. It has formerly been the property of Lady Beatrice in Sidmouth and is labelled verso. Painted circa 1680, the portrait is three quarter length and is of a young noble woman in a very sumptuous, ornate red dress with bows, beads, jewels, lace and heavy embroidery on it as well as red and white feathers coming from her hair. One hand is by her chest and the other reaches out to, maybe, a purse on a table, very similar to her earrings. Next to that is a bound red book and beneath that one can clearly see sheet music. Perhaps this is to indicate her love of music or singing. She gazes straight at the artist/viewer in a very confident manner, sure of her place in the world. The details and colouring are just superb, given the painting is from the 17th century and this is a rather special Spanish Old Master portrait.

Unsigned. 

Provenance Labelled verso, 'Portrait by Coello, Property of Lady Beatrice K??, Colematon Cottage, Sidmouth'

Click the link below for this painting
https://www.richardtaylorfineart.com/gallery/new/coello/portrait-of-a-spanish-noble-lady