Sir Peter Lely, and Studio, 1618–1680, Dutch, active in England (from 1643)
Title:
Edward Montagu, first Earl of Sandwich
Date:
between 1660 and 1665
Materials & Techniques:
Oil on canvas
Dimensions:
87 7/8 x 51 1/2 inches (223.2 x 130.8 cm)
Credit Line:
Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Fund
Copyright Status:
Public Domain
Accession Number:
B1980.25.1
Gallery Label:
This painting presents the Earl of Sandwich in the ceremonial robes of the Order of the Garter, which include the large jewel depicting St. George on his chest and the badge embroidered upon his shoulder. The order was Britain’s highest honor, bestowed directly by the monarch, and large-scale portraits such as this projected the sitter’s status among the most privileged elite. Made shortly after the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Lely’s painting serves as a statement of Sandwich’s loyalty and willing participation in the new regime. Although he fought against Charles II during the Civil War, the Earl later accepted the king’s return to power, even sailing to the Netherlands to bring him back from exile. Gallery label for installation of YCBA collection, 2025
