From the era of Marie-Antoinette and King Louis XVI, ill-fated yet set in a vivid historical period in French history, this woman looks out at us. Her plumpness as much a sign of her privilege as is her coiffure and elaborate blue gown. Her lace bodices showing from her opened gown or robe makes this very likely the painting of a mistress, commissioned for her lover. Not much jewelry, another indication, she has rather simple pearl earrings and nothing more. Large eyes, a Cupid's bow mouth and a slight double-chin are incredibly captured in a face just 5/8" from chin to hairline. Our artist here did not sign the work, and we do not have her identity. She has a look of fashion perhaps influenced by Miss Lamballe, sister of Louis XVI. Her face shows not a hint of what was to come in all their lives. Portrait is c.1770s. Measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, the painting is excellent, undamaged, as is the original convex cover glass and her brass mount/frame. I feel quite certain she was originally within one of the typical beveled wood frames of her era, but a lot of these old ones have been removed. Some don't like the old wooden frame, but we wish they'd leave them in original state, too. I found her in France, of course.
