A charming pair of drawings, hand colored in watercolor on card (thick heavy paper) and framed in mid-1800s French ebonized frames, these two gentile older women might be sisters, grandmothers, maiden aunts - they're certainly related in a manner that could simply include being captured by the same artist. An unusual manner of miniature, these are wonderful small drawings, works of art - charming and intimate. Each in 3/4 view seated pose in interiors that show some of their interests - each has a book, one in hand and the other on table. The bonnet or scarf and the presence of a shawl hints at them dressing up for their portraits, but there is a simplicity and almost austerity that inhabits the image, too. Aren't they fabulous! I bought the pair together, and they seem to have some relationship to one another so we're offering the pair together, as well. C. 1840-60, not later.
Very good condition for age and type, you can see there is a slight halo of moisture damage on the lady with black shawl, upper right, and really just looks like cracks on her wall. A few small spots that sort of look as if they're meant to be there - like stains on her dress. Look closely to see what I mean. No signature on these, though we didn't take them out to see if perhaps they're signed on back. Again, pencil drawing with watercolor highlighting - done on paper or card. Framed under glass, and ready to hang. There is a hairline crack on frame of the black-shawl lady, about 1 o'clock position, not serious but just a mention. Charming, folksy, lovely elderly ladies.
