THE WINTER CHATSWORTH FINE ART & ANTIQUE SALE December 3rd & 4th, 2025

85 Fonsie Mealy’s Est. 1934 “Portrait of a Young Man,”O.O.C., approx. 122cms x 99cms (48” x 39”). (1) Likely a copy made in the eighteenth century of a portrait by Sir Peter Lely (or a contemporary) dating from the 1660’s, this finely- painted canvas depicts a confident-looking young man standing in front of a Classical arcaded terrace. Depicted half length, the young man has long dark hair and a hint of a moustache. Elegantly dressed, he wears a yellow satin waistcoat over a voluminous white linen shirt, and at his neck is a lace cravat, held by a jeweled pin. Around his shoulders is a red cloak. Behind him, there is a formal parterre, with paths and a fountain, while two figures can be seen on the terrace. A roseate sunset suffuses the sky with soft light, while the man’s head is framed by leaves of a tree. Whether a copy or studio work, the portrait is an accomplished work of art, expertly painted. The provenance of this painting is Coolmore, Dysart, Co. Kilkenny, a Regency house associated with the Herne, Langrishe, Connellan, and Solly-Flood families. One of the leading painters of the mid seventeenth century, Peter Lely was renowned for his ability to depict aristocratic sitters, both male and female, in settings that made them appear both cultured and ‘natural’. He often painted women in the guise of shepherdesses or goddesses; this allowed him to indulge in painting the rich fabrics and flowing draperies in which he excelled. The settings are often parks or gardens, with trees and buildings in the background. He had many assistants, who worked on draperies and backgrounds while he painted the faces. The poses were also regularized, with clients choosing a particular pose. Born in the Netherlands, Lely studied painting in Haarlem. In 1643, two years after the death of Anthony van Dyke, he moved to England, where he spent the remainder of his life, following van Dyke in becoming the leading court painter. Lely was a man for all seasons, working for Charles I, then Oliver Cromwell, and lastly Charles II. Peter Murray 2025 €3,000 - €4,000 800. Sir Peter Lely (1618-1680) (After)