I have a special affinity for the rarer portrait miniatures of children. This one is a particular favorite, c.1810 and painted outdoors or at least with a landscape enclosure to the handsome young boy. A hint of a smile, a flirt of those huge brown eyes, he is dressed for his portrait but his face says he'd love to just turn and run into the forest, doesn't it. He remains frozen in the moment, c.1810s, possibly earlier, a generous lace collar and his blue dress. Yes, likely a dress since he's young, though with his newly shorn hair, it might be a portrait of his transition from being long-haired "mamon's petit garçon", to being "papa's jeune homme". That transition usually is at about age 4-5 and when he is fully potty trained.
Very good to excellent condition throughout on this one. Still perfectly protected under the original convex cover glass, which I've taken out and thoroughly cleaned (of course). He's been well-treasured, as we can see, though the old original wooden frame shows a tight short hairline of age at the 12-o'clock position. Not a break, just an age flaw. Otherwise, I see nothing at all to report by way of flaw. Frame is 4 1/2" x 4" and 5/8" thick. The painting is 2 1/4" x 1 7/8" oval and his sweet face is just 5/8" from chin to his bangs. Originally purchased this one in France.
