Portrait of Sir William Cowper [1639-1706] Circle of Michael Dahl
17th century  oval, bust-length, with a long dark wig, and wearing a lace cravat and brown overcoat. 
The size being 73 x 60 cm, (24 x 28.5 inches approx )the overall size 96.5 x 84 cm (38x33 inches approx)
housed in carved giltwood  lely  style frame.
Sir William Cowper, pronounced "cooper" Baronet of Ratling Court and Hertford Castle, 
being son and heir of John Cowper, of Lincoln's Inn, London 
John was son and heir apparent of the 1st Baronet, but died when in confinement at Ely House,
in September 1643. William succeeded to the Baronetcies, 2 December 1664. He was M.P. for Hertford in six Parliaments,
1679-1700; was an active Whig, and joined with the Earl of Shaftesbury, etc, in presenting, in 1680
, an indictment against James, Duke of York, for non-attendance at church;
was clerk of the Parliaments. He married Sarah, daughter of Samuel Holled,and their son became
William Cowper, 1st Earl Cowper PC KC FRS (c. 1665 – 10 October 1723) an English politician
who became the first Lord Chancellor of Great Britain.
Provenance. Inherited through ten generations of the Cowper family.
overall condition is very good having had some restoration,with old lining 
,frame some self coloured losses, 
The companion portrait of sarah cowper is also available for sale at this time, please see my listings.
Michael Dahl (1659–1743)
A Swedish portrait painter who lived and worked in England most of his career. 
He painted portraits of many aristocrats and some members of royal families.
His paintings are on show in many museums and national trust houses.
please email if you require any further information