Barbara Villiers (1640–1709), Duchess of Cleveland 1670 - 1727

This portrait of Barbara Villiers, Duchess of Cleveland, was painted by Sir Peter Lely, one of the most sought-after portraitists of the English Restoration period. The Duchess, known for her beauty and her relationship with King Charles II, is portrayed in a regal pose, seated and adorned in luxurious garments. Lely, known for his loose brushstrokes and soft, atmospheric effects, uses a palette of rich browns, blues and grays to highlight the Duchess's elegance and create a sense of intimacy. The portrait, which is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, exemplifies Lely’s signature style and the glamour of the English court during Charles II's reign.