Fashion as political statement - who did it better than the French! More than just a pretty portrait miniature, this young French woman, c.1790s-1810 shows her political and likely familial support for France's Royals and citizens who perished during The Terror, their hair short ahead of the guillotine. The haircut was called the Titus, and it was close-cropped in back, longer and curls falling forward around the face, as it would have hung on those about to lose their heads. Some of these portraits also display a red sash or scarf draped around neck or shoulders, signifying the lost blood. Formal balls were held during the time, attendance only allowed to those who had lost someone during The Terror of the French Revolution's guillotine. Dressed in mourning clothing, there was even a special way a gentleman bowed to greet a lady, a quick bow and forward hard snap of the head, significant after the beheadings. Such interesting history. This young woman was a part of that era, the painting dating c.1780s-1800. The portrait is elegant, unsigned, and in very nice condition.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. Our photos were taken through the slightly convex cover glass, so a little glare here or there from the lights. The fronting to the brass frame is a thin facing of karat gold, and you can see the bonding of the metals if you look closely with loupe. Not just a foil, nor plating. The frame is as petit as the girl, just 2 1/4" in diameter, and her face is only 5/8", chin to hairline.
