About this lot

Description

Studio of Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt. (British, 1646-1723) Portrait of Isabella Bennet, Duchess of Grafton (1667-1723), standing, three-quarter length, beside a water fountain oil on canvas 134 x 107cm (52 x 42in)
Provenance: According to a label on the reverse, bequeathed by Sir Godfrey Kneller to his pupil, Edward Byng; to his sister, Elizabeth Byng, who married the Reverend William Wray, Rector of Broadchalk, Wiltshire, and presumed thence by descent Other Notes: Isabella Bennet was the daughter of Lord Arlington and the first wife of the 1st Duke of Grafton. The original composition, of which this is apparently a studio version, hangs, according to a note on the reverse of the painting, in the King's Private Dining Room at Hampton Court Palace
Neckline has been altered for purposes of Victorian modesty. Oil on canvas which has been lined. At the upper right comer is an impact damage which has caused a small tear. The paint layer is in a stable condition overall but has suffered from some wear. The blue pigment used in the dress appears to have degraded, leading to a mottled appearance. There is overpaint in many areas of the portrait, especially the background. The overpaint is slightly milky but generally acceptable from a normal viewing distance. The modern frame is in a good condition.

Back to lot listings