The most darling little girl, her hair up in a band, and her intelligent little face intent upon the artist who has signed the work upper left corner. It's a little difficult to make out but is likely "L. Cerraud, 1879". At least we're certain of the date. Certain also of the artist's talent. Impressionist influence to this one - just look at the application of color, the brush strokes on her face and into her hairline - brilliant! The painting is a French portrait, oil on stretched canvas, unframed but ready to frame should you choose to. So often French paintings are just hung and enjoyed without frame, or leaning against a wall, even, or hung on a bookshelf front. The elegant informality of it all is part of the charm of a Paris apartment, isn't it. Full measurements noted on the photos, but it is 21.5" x 15". And, yes, I found her in France of course.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, there are no holes in the canvas, which has been preserved, bonded to a more sturdy recent linen canvas (see image from back) which adds centuries to her life. The shine on the photos is only from our photographers lighting, and the deep claret red backing is evenly done, dramatic as a background for her sweet young face. Some crackle of age showing to the rather thickly applied oil paint, which is natural and not a flaw. Old stretcher frame, the painting is very nicely stretched. VERY high appeal on this one!
