The notation on back seems to have been added by a collector who acquired this one in February, 1977, and they have noted "Ganther 1830". I'm unsure if that information refers to the artist or to the gentleman. I have not taken this image out of its frame, you see it has a sealed backing - and perhaps an artist's signature is there just outer rim of the small painting, hidden from view, hence the notation. Quite normally, a signature will have a date. The gentleman's clothing and fashion does put him perfectly in c.1830. A nice convex cover glass remains fully intact as also the mat and wood frame typical of the period in France. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, no breaks or splits, hairlines, and very nicely preserved paint. I can tell you it shows better in person, and the very tiny white specs are dust particles enhanced by the photo lighting, and are not lost flecks of paint. A fine portrait - a man maturing but with his piercing blue eyes still declaring his importance and status.
