Barbara Villiers (1640–1709), Duchess of Cleveland

Barbara Villiers (1640–1709), Duchess of Cleveland by Sir Peter Lely

The painting titled "Barbara Villiers (1640–1709), Duchess of Cleveland" is attributed to Sir Peter Lely, a prominent portrait artist of the 17th century. However, the date of 1727 is incorrect, as Lely passed away in 1680. Lely was renowned for his role as the principal painter to King Charles II, capturing the likenesses of many figures from the Restoration court. This particular work exemplifies Lely's skill in portraying the opulence and elegance of his sitters, with a focus on luxurious textures and a sophisticated use of light. Barbara Villiers, a notable figure in her own right, was a mistress of King Charles II and wielded significant influence during her time. The painting is a testament to Lely's ability to convey both the physical beauty and the social stature of his subjects, contributing to the visual documentation of the Restoration era.

The painting "Barbara Villiers (1640–1709), Duchess of Cleveland" by Sir Peter Lely, created in 1727, is an oil on canvas portrait that exemplifies the Baroque style with its emphasis on opulent textures and dramatic lighting. The subject, Barbara Villiers, was a prominent figure in the court of King Charles II, and the artwork is part of the collection at the National Portrait Gallery in London.