387 - P. LELY (1618-1680), Lady Elizabeth with a flowering branch, Mezzotint

P. LELY (1618-1680), Lady Elizabeth with a flowering branch, Mezzotint Peter Lely (1618 Soest - 1680 ): Lady Elizabeth Jones with blossoms and flower vase, 17th century, Mezzotint Technique: Mezzotint on Paper Inscription: At the lower part signed in the printing plate: "P. Lelij Eq. Pinxit. | Carolus Allard Excudit.". Lower middle inscribed in the printing plate: "The Lady Elizabeth Jones.". Date: 17th century Description: The elegant Lady Elizabeth Jones, later Countess of Kildare, is depicted in three-quarter length in a seated pose with her arm outstretched to the side, grasping a flowering branch. She wears a low-cut, flowing gown with a rich lustre on the fabric, while she holds flowers in her other hand. Heavy curtains, a classical pillar and a wide landscape view unfold behind her. The mezzotint technique creates a charming effect of light and shadow and emphasises the Baroque style of representation. Keywords: Elizabeth Jones; Lady Elizabeth; Countess of Kildare; Portrait; Mezzotint; 17th century; Baroque; Noble portrait; Flowers; Seated woman; Decorative vase; Curtain; Pillared architecture; Representative dress; English aristocracy; Natural motif; Portrait of a lady; Lighting; Classical elegance; Romantic staging; 17th century; Baroque; Portraits; United Kingdom; Size: Paper: 34,1 cm x 25,8 cm (13,4 x 10,2 in), Plate: 33,2 cm x 24,8 cm (13,1 x 9,8 in), Depiction: 31,8 cm x 24,8 cm (12,5 x 9,8 in) Condition: Good condition. The sheet is in good condition with only minor signs of ageing. The printed area is clear, contrasts and details - especially in the face, fabric and background - are well preserved. Minor marginal browning and minimal paper irregularities at the lower edge of the sheet, but without affecting the image. Crease above upper right corner of sheet. Small tear to lower left corner of sheet. Verso with adhesive residue to sheet corners.