A perfectly preserved c.1820 French portrait miniature of a handsome young boy, blue eyes and reddish blond, that face is only 5/8" from chin to hairline. Perhaps 9-10 years old, the boy shows such dignity and position, certainly son of a noble family. The oyster-shaped locket frame into which the hand painted portrait miniature has been so well protected for over 200 years is 14k gold (acid-tested). I should say, it tests at least 14k, but not 18k which is more likely in French jewelry. It might be closer to 18k. I do not see a mark, but I have not ever opened it. The back side is slightly convex, not as much so as the cover glass over the painting, and it is deep cobalt glass with an inset mount showing opaline glass oval with foil behind and a gold monogram centered. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type (over 200 years old at this point in time). There are no breaks, chips or cracks, no hairlines to any aspect of this fine museum piece. The gold is not bent, and shows beautifully in hand, actual size, though you can see in our greatly enlarged photos, the light will show some light surface abrasions to the gold locket-style oyster-shape frame. Meant to wear on a ribbon or hang from the bale up top, the locket is 2 1/2" x 2" oval, plus the height of the bale. Finest quality, truly incredible painting, unsigned.
