ATTRIBUTED TO HENRI GASCARS (FRENCH, 1635-1701)

Louise de Keroualle was born into a noble family from Brittany.  In 1670 she accompanied Henrietta Anne Stuart (1644-1670) Duchess of Orleans and sister of King Charles II to England.  Following Henrietta’s sudden death later that year, she became lady-in-waiting to Charles II’s wife, Catherine of Braganza (1638-1705).  Despite becoming mistress to Charles II she maintained an affectionate and respectful relationship with the Queen. 

Intelligent, witty and strong-willed, Louise was a useful ambassador from a French perspective, subtly representing their interests at court and was given the title of Duchess of Portsmouth in August 1673.  Charles II nicknamed her ‘Fubbs’ on account of her slightly portly figure, and in 1682 a royal yacht was built with the same name, in her honour.  Her son Charles was created Duke of Richmond in 1675, aged three. While she maintained the affection of both King and Queen, she was greatly disliked by the populace as well as her rival, Nell Gywnne.  Following Charles’ death she returned to France and, having lost the income granted to her from the English crown, was supported by King Louis XIV, and Regent Philippe II until her death in 1734. 

Henri Gascars arrived in England from Paris around 1674, probably having been summoned by Louise herself.  He soon received numerous commissions from the English court but had returned to France by 1680, probably due to the rising anti-Catholic sentiment in England.

CONDITION REPORT
The canvas has been relined; paint surface is in good, clean condition with an even varnish.  Ultraviolet reveals sparing retouching to flesh tones, to the sitter's dress, lower centre and to the background, lower right.  Held in a plaster gilt frame in good, overall condition.