Isn't she a darling! Protected for more than 100 years under a glare-prone convex cover glass, the 2.25" round wafer is sparklingly alive, and that sweet-faced little girl's smile and twinkle of eye bring her alive, don't they. I've taken her out of her c.1880-1910 frame, and I really do think she's as late as perhaps c.1920, but it's only because of the clothing. All but that says she's a good deal earlier. Signed by the artist, either M. Pauveat, or M. Pauvert, which. I can't tell for certain. Not a listed artist. Perhaps a member of the child's family since they got such a lovely expression from her. Portrait miniatures of children are far more rare than of adults. This sweet one is a treasure from my collection.
Very good to excellent condition, no loss to the original painting on thin natural wafer. Gouache, exquisitely handled by the artist. The face is magnificent, isn't it? Capturing a smiling child is nearly impossible. Feels like the artist is definitely a parent or grandparent. Measurements noted on the photos, it is just 2.5" in diameter in frame, and her face is just 1" from top of her bangs to her chin. As the French would say, "Superb!".
