Such character and appeal! A refined and beautifully executed French portrait miniature dating to the final decades of the 18th century, capturing a poised lady in the elegant transitional style between Louis XVI and the early Directoire period.
The sitter is shown in three-quarter view, her expression calm and assured, with delicately modeled features and softly blushed complexion. She wears a sheer white fichu gathered into the fashionable high Empire waist, tied with a vivid blue ribbon beneath the bust. A slender black cord suspends a small heart-shaped pendant at her décolletage, adding a note of intimacy and sentiment - is it a heart?
Her powdered wig, dressed in soft curls and bound with a matching blue ribbon bandeau, reflects late 18th-century fashion just as natural hair began to replace the towering coiffures of earlier decades. The subtle landscape background, rendered in muted tones, provides gentle contrast while keeping full attention on the sitter.
The miniature is finely painted, likely watercolor on ivory, exhibiting excellent detail in the lacework, ribbons, and facial modeling. It is presented in a rich oval gilt bezel within a black lacquered rectangular frame, topped with a decorative gilt bronze hanging loop adorned with oak leaves—an elegant presentation suitable for cabinet display.
Measurements
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Frame: 4 5/8” tall x 3 3/4” wide x 1/4” depth
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Painting aperture (oval): 2 3/8” tall x 1 3/4” wide
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Face (chin to hairline): approx. 3/4”
Condition consistent with age; please review photographs carefully as they form part of the description. No warp, cracks, chips to the painting and the frame is very good to excellent, as well. A charming and authentic example of French portrait miniature artistry from the years surrounding the Revolution, when fashion softened and sentiment became central to personal adornment. Ideal for collectors of 18th-century portraiture, French decorative arts, or fine antique miniatures.
