This is a wonderful Titanic era (Edwardian, c.1910) American oil painting portrait of a woman who is identified on back, along with her street address in Pasadena, CA. I have tried to be sure I read it right, and have looked online for all renditions I can think of, finding nothing. And yet Pasadena was then a very wealthy northeastern LA valley city, filled with mansions and important architecture and people. She is obviously one of them, fine fashion and a huge diamond brooch at her neckline - must be 8 carats, at least. Close in time with her portrait sitting would have been the news of the Titanic tragedy (1912), the declarations of WWI, devastating Spanish Flu Pandemic - and also Belle Epoch luxury. It was a magical time of grandeur superimposed on terror and tragedy. I see her in the tranquil moments, cusp of grand excess and luxurious living, and before the world seemed to begin falling apart. I wish I could have found her story. I've owned this painting for many years, found her today while looking for another portrait. The warehouse is SO fun! Full measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition, both the superb Art Nouveau frame and the oil painting on board which fills it. I really see no flaws to note for you. Photos show it well. Not small enough to consider as a miniature, but a charming and intimate size - wall or shelf display. I feel she belongs in a museum. If by chance you can interpret the hand writing and link her to a family, please do email us. We would do our best to locate an heir. Thanks.
