17th century oval painting boy with king charles spaniel puppy circle of mary beale

An Endearing Bond Restoration Portrait of a Boy with His King Charles Spaniel Puppy c.1680 ?? Circle of Mary Beale (1633–1699)

?? Subject & Medium
An exquisite C1680 late 17th-century oil on canvas painting portraying a young boy tenderly cradling his King Charles spaniel puppy—a breed beloved by the English aristocracy for its elegance, gentle temperament, and close association with the royal courts of Charles I and Charles II. Titled "An Endearing Bond". Painted during the Restoration era, the work captures a rare, tender domestic moment that feels personal rather than purely ceremonial. It conveys themes of innocence, loyalty, and familial warmth, beautifully encapsulated in the child’s close bond with his pet.?? Composition & Technique
The sitter is shown in a graceful three-quarter pose, his youthful frame angled slightly toward the viewer, while his head tilts softly, drawing attention to his serene, almost protective gaze. His right arm cradles the small spaniel with gentle security, while the dog nestles into him, its body relaxed in trust. This intimate positioning suggests not only companionship but mutual comfort—a visual dialogue of affection between child and animal.
The boy wears period-appropriate attire: a fine silk or satin tunic in a muted yet lustrous tone, possibly silver-grey or soft chestnut, accented with delicate lace at the collar and cuffs. The drapery of the fabric is captured with sweeping, fluid brushstrokes, while finer detailing brings out the intricate lacework. These textures contrast beautifully with the dog’s softly brushed fur, which shimmers in warm browns and creams.The colour palette is rich but harmonious—earthy ochres and warm umbers forming the background, allowing the luminous flesh tones of the boy’s face and hands to stand out. The artist employs smooth, blended transitions for the skin, while using more expressive, textured strokes for the clothing and the dog’s coat, creating a dynamic balance between precision and painterly freedom.?? Inscription
Verso inscribed “Bl”, adding intrigue for representing the circle of Mary Beale.????? About the Artist – Circle of Mary Beale
Whilst being unsigned the work is attributed to the Circle of Mary Beale, she was one of the most respected portraitists in 17th-century England and one of the very few women to sustain a professional painting career in the period. Known for her warmth of expression, skillful colouring, and subtle conveyance of personality, she painted both members of the gentry and fellow artists within London’s vibrant art world.This work indicates that it was created by an artist closely aligned with her style, perhaps trained in her studio or deeply influenced by her techniques. Such works often share her hallmarks—refined figure modelling, a softly luminous palette, and an emotional authenticity rare for the era. This portrait embodies those qualities, making it a fine and representative example of her influence.?? Framed Dimensions
86 cm high × 74 cm wide × 4.5 cm deep?? Provenance
Private collection
Purchased Christie's South Kensington, September 2004
Subsequently sold by a notable northern Shire auction
Exhibited at a middle Shire Museum
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD?? Why You’ll Love It
? Rare and beautiful example of Restoration-era portraiture
? Warm, emotional bond between child and pet captured with tenderness
? Attributed to the circle of one of England’s most important female artists
? Retains original oval gilt frame with rich period patina
? Comes with excellent provenance, including Christie’s sale and museum exhibition history
? Ready to hang and enjoy, with timeless decorative and historical appeal?? Condition Report
Canvas shows various signs craquelure consistent with its age; surface wear. Frame stretcher lines showing through canvas. No major losses or overpainting visible. The original oval frame has been overpainted & has various wear, scuffs and some losses, structurally sound and fitted with a hanging thread to the reverse, ready for immediate display.

Antiques.co.uk Ref: F3GP8T767

Maker/Artist:

Circle of Mary Beale

Materials:

Oil on canvas

Width (cm):

74

Height (cm):

86

Depth (cm):

4.5

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