One of my favorites, this just gorgeous and innocent pre-teen girl, shy in her low bodice French Empire gown. I can hardly stand it when paintings this stunning are unsigned by the artist. Works of this quality deserve credit. I know, it's 200 or more years ago, and the artist is long forgotten - just a craftsman, probably barely could make a living. But just look. Her face is just 3/4", chin to hairline. I found her in France, of course, and her name is as lost to time as is her artist. Just this treasure remains of a life lived. I think she would have been about 9-10, give or take a year. Isn't she just exquisite! Measurements are on the photos, but the narrow oval frame is unusual, and is 3" tall.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, with a mention of the very bottom of the painting, slight moisture perhaps, which all but disappears once she's mounted back under the convex cover glass (original) and into her brass mat/frame. The painting still has the old vellum backing. I will regret selling this one, won't I. Time to disburse collections, though. More to come. Come back.
