French school of the late 17th century. "Lady". Oil... Lot 28

French school of the late 17th century. "Lady". Oil on canvas (oval). Frame, 19th century. Frame (later) with woodworm. It presents restorations of different periods, slight faults in the painting. Measurements: 69 x 58 cm; 85 x 75 cm (frame). This court portrait can be related to the refined royal portraits painted by Pierre II Mignard, a painter of important artistic lineage (son of Nicolas Mignard and nephew of Pierre Mignard) who developed his work between Paris and Avignon. In this half-length oval portrait, the lady of the high aristocracy is depicted with verisimilitude and attentive psychological capture. Her features and her perceptive gaze, framed by her arched eyebrows, denote a singular character. The porcelain flesh tones and full lips give the young woman a sensuality, although her features are not idealised. A ringlet falls over her neckline, and a pearl necklace enhances the profile of her neck. The blue silk dress, draped with naturalistic drapery, is fringed with gold brooches, and rich brocades complete the sumptuous attire. At the neckline there is a pleated border with rich lace. The present painter was able to imbibe the novelties of the neoclassical painting of his time, while inheriting the exquisiteness of his rococo ancestors.