This 17th-century painting shows a black and a white woman side by side, as equals – wearing similar dress, hair and jewellery. It’s a highly unusual composition for the period.
It’s also remarkable for its depiction of beauty patches on both women. Although the patches were popular when the painting was created, an inscription above the women declares them a sin of pride – a commonly held opinion at the time.
In addition, the English School work invites important debate about race and gender, and the history of black culture in England, during the 17th century.
However, after being sold at action in 2021, the painting was at risk of permanently leaving the UK.
Thanks to our funding – alongside contributions from the V&A Purchase Fund and Compton Verney Collections Settlement – it's now been conserved and is on display at the Compton Verney gallery.
Geraldine Collinge, Compton Verney CEO, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to add this hugely important painting to the Compton Verney collection. This unusual work offers us a unique insight into societal attitudes and artistic development during one of the most tumultuous times in British history. The subject matter reveals the disturbing and widespread beliefs that shaped the perception of women and foreigners in this period, and the terrible ramifications this had on their lives.”