Circle of Sir Peter Lely (Soest, Westphalia 1618-1680 London)

Francis Cottington was an important politician and statesmen throughout the seventeenth century. He was a staunch supporter of James I’s pro-Spanish policy in 1613 and later became the ambassador to Spain. In 1649, together with Edward Hyde, Cottington went on a mission to Spain to obtain help for the royal cause. He remained there until his death in 1652 and was later buried in Westminster Abbey. This picture can be compared with the bust-length portrait of Cottington, which appears to be dated 1634, now in the National Portrait Gallery, London. Despite the decidedly Spanish attitude of the sitter, the prime version was presumably painted by an English artist as Cottington is recorded as being in his native country at that time.