An exceptional and old portrait, still with the original crimson leather case or etui, what looks to be a bride, but isn't likely since brides in white are a more modern thing. This woman dates late c.1700s and, while the wafer is not perfect, she is spectacular. A veil, but also a brilliiant tiara of either paste stones (faux diamonds) or similar. Delicate translucent lace falls across her shoulders across a beautiful gown of white, high waisted and to the shoulders. The back of this frame is brass, but the front is a cast oval of 18k gold (acid tested). It is not just plated, but has a thin ornate 18k gold plaque mounted atop the backside of the frame. Measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good condition for age and type. The case's outer leather covering in crimson is complete. The case is wood, and there is a slight warp to it but it does close tightly with the clasp, still. Interior of case is excellent old silk. The frame is excellent. Our lovely big-eyed young woman is still backed by the original vellum sealed backing, and protected beneath the original cover glass, but the very old wafer has shrunk and has 2 hairlines. These do not go all the way, either of them, but they show the fragile nature of the very thin wafer upon which the painting is completed in gouache (a water-based paint).
