Exquisite pair of hand painted oil portrait miniatures, each on convex porcelain plaques and not a bit of loss. But the truly stunning combination of these paintings and their original Victorian, Napoleon III era French paste gem frames - quite astounding. The frames are exceptionally fine and rare antiques on their own. That they still hold both portraits and there is not a bit of loss shows how truly treasured they were. Portraits either at a marriage, or a Grand Tour would be my guess, c.1850-70, fashion and hair considered. Aren't they just spectacular! Measurements noted on the photos, and each frame has 26 superb old French paste "faux diamonds" in about 7/8 carat size, forming an upturned horse shoe, thought to capture all the luck and blessings raining down upon the pair. You are buying both portraits, both frames. They're a couple, should never be parted IMO.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The beautiful portraits are unsigned, but represent the work of a world class miniaturist. Rather unusual to be on convex porcelain plaques, which we might more likely associate with Germany, and yet those French paste gem frames are unmistakable as French. Large past stones, faceted and none missing nor replaced. All old originals. Each stone would be about 7/8 carat. Combined, just an exceptional set. Measurements are noted on our photos. Each plaque has incised "24 T", and the gentleman's has a nip to the outer rim, marked for your review on our photos. In frame, that small flaw is completely hidden from view. Splendid Pair.
