Magnificent 18th century portrait miniature, a woman of French nobility, typical or popular setting of outdoors and in a simple gown popularized by Marie-Antoinette in the Louis XVI era, though she's trimmed it out in gold highlight embroidery and Empire waist belt. The motif repeated in her gold headband, one can interpret it as perhaps her own designed gown, as she holds a round embroidery frame with her silk embroidery work as part of her portrait. I don't think I've ever owned a portrait miniature with a woman at her embroidery - maybe just one. Of interest with this one is the superb and unique sterling silver frame with its enamel mat and enamel backing where we have a very typical Louis XVI era inlay of musical instruments. A larger-than-usual frame and painting, the long bale is also quite unique. I have never opened this one and don't know if there might be additional information about the portraits subject or artist. She remains in perfect condition beneath her slightly convex and highly polished cover glass. The frame, alone, is a superb antique all on its own - sterling silver and kiln-fired enamel, 18th century. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, I really see no flaws to point out in this exceptional museum worthy portrait in elaborate frame, both original to each other, and each dating c.1750-80s. Enameled backing if inlaid with mother of pearl musical instruments, mandolin and Cupid's bow and arrow scabbard - iconography of love. Exceptionally fine painting, gouache on thin undamaged wafer, a beautiful young woman with her embroidery.
