Mary Capel (1630–1715), Later Duchess of Beaufort, and Her Sister Elizabeth (1633–1678), Countess of Carnarvon  1678

Lely was influenced by Anthony van Dyck and perhaps hoped to succeed him. He was admired and patronized by the Capel family and some of his best work, including this double portrait, was installed at their country house, Cassiobury Park. The colorful and elaborate draperies and the supple handling of the flesh tones are characteristic. The high quality frame is original. (...