Antique Portrait of Anne of Denmark, attributed to a Follower of Paul van Somer

This exquisite portrait, rendered in oil on copper, presents a three-quarter-length depiction of Anne of Denmark (1574-1619), the esteemed queen consort of King James VI and I. Anne, born to King Frederick II of Denmark and Norway, married James in 1589, marking a significant alliance between England and Denmark.

Anne of Denmark is portrayed here in regal attire, clad in a sumptuous black dress adorned with lace cuffs and a ruff, complemented by pearls and ornamental details. The meticulous attention to detail and delicate brushwork evident in this portrait reflect the refined tastes and elegance associated with the Jacobean court.

The artist responsible for this remarkable portrayal is believed to be a follower of Paul van Somer (1576–1621), a Flemish painter renowned for his portraits during the early 17th century in England. Van Somer, though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries like Anthony van Dyck, left a lasting impact on English portraiture with his sophisticated compositions and skillful rendering of his subjects.

The attribution to a "Follower of Paul van Somer" suggests that while the painting may not be directly executed by the master himself, it reflects the stylistic influence and artistic principles characteristic of his work. These followers were often talented artists in their own right, producing works that emulated the grace and refinement associated with the master's oeuvre.

Dimensions:

Measuring 6½ x 4¾ inches (16.5 x 12.2 cm), this portrait captivates viewers with its intimate scale and exquisite craftsmanship. The use of oil on copper, a favoured medium for small-scale portraiture during the period, enhances the luminosity and precision of the painting, ensuring its enduring beauty for generations to come.

Comes in a highly ornate wood frame.
Frame dimensions: 27.5 cm in height and 23 cm
Weight: 678 grams in total

As a portrait thought to depict Anne of Denmark, this artwork offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and political milieu of early 17th-century England. Anne's patronage of the arts and her influence on the Jacobean court further enrich the historical significance of this painting, making it a compelling addition to any collection of period portraiture.

The portrait exhibits minor paint loss in several areas, revealing the underlying copper surface, while retaining the intricate detailing of the face and clothing. The wooden frame displays signs of aging, with some ornaments missing, yet it complements the artwork admirably.

Please Note: The painting is currently loose and requires reframing to ensure stability and security.

Provenance: Comes from one of the auction houses.

ITEM LOCATION : United Kingdom
SHIPPING FEE: Complimentary Express & Insured Shipping
INCLUDED: Complimentary Gift Wrap Packaging & Certificate of Evaluation.
RETURNS: 14-Days Return Policy, Money-Back Guarantee.