This has a feel of an old photograph that has been hand colored, and perhaps it began as such, c.1870-80s. The overall painting feels very Impressionist, however, and is simply stunning. Either watercolor or guache (slightly thicker), it is remarkable in presentation as well as in technique. The 19 3/8" x 17" wooden frame is a shadow box with an ornate gilt frame within. A cover glass remains intact and original, and the painting is superb. Her feathered hat in hand, we glimpse a woman of style and substance. Jewelry and fashion, portrait, in one. The shadow box frame is approximately 1 3/8" in depth.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, age and type considered. I have an inclination to this type of old French frame and have many that now hold my family photos. This one, with its original painting within, is just too pretty to change out. The way you enter it is by removing the bottom slat (a tiny nail or two) and then the glass slides out of the grooves, for front access. Or you can open the back (also a few little nails). I tell you this because there are a couple of tiny tips from the gold inner frame that are floating into interior corner. I haven't taken it apart to remove those, they're really not distracting. Overall measurements are noted on our photos. Frame and glass are both exquisite protections for that gilt frame and painting within. Ready to hang, the old hardware remains on back.
