17TH CENTURY ENGLISH SCHOOL - PORTRAIT OF A YOUNG BOY AND HIS HOUNDS c.1670

Fine and sensitively rendered English school portrait of a young boy and his hounds c.1670.

The elegant and attractive sitter is depicted on the hunt in an Arcadian landscape.  One red collared hound stands obediently at his side, and another chases a deer into the distance.

From under a mop of curly blonde hair,  he turns his wide blue eyes to face the viewer. The young boy wears pastel coloured classic dress, sandals and a blue cloak, and the flowing movement of this drapery as well as his gesturing hand suggest that he is hastening into the hills to hunt.

Through the sitters dress, the hunting subject matter and the paintings arcadian topography, the artist elevates this portrait into the realms of an enchanting arcadian allegory.

As if to say ‘Et in Arcadia Ego’ - even in life there is death. Our heroes youth will also fade and it will die, but happily his beauty lives on forever in this beguiling portrait!

This fine 17th century oil is in an excellent state of conservation, and It is ready to hang and enjoy in its original hand carved and gilded 178th century frame.

Higher resolution images upon request  Worldwide shipping available.

Canvas: 51” x 41” / 130cm x 105cm Frame: 54.5” x 45.5” / 139cm x 116cm

ON HOLD