French Romantic Era to earliest 1800s miniature painting, entirely a hand painted work of art in its own right, showing Psyche and Cupid in a beautiful landscape. Amazing detail in a painting just 2 5/8" in diameter. Impossibly tiny faces are 1/4" or less from chin to hairline, and yet look at the detail. This one illustrates Psyche giving slight pause or caution to an active Cupid, his arrows still at foot, though his bow is in hand. "Wait, slow down" is the message. I believe this painting was originally mounted atop a patch or small snuff box, as it has that type of backside. You know I love these, and have collected them for many decades, lots of experience. This one doesn't show a signature, which is most usual in these, and it is perfectly preserved - extra charming! Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, still protected perfectly in original brass outer frame and beneath the original slightly convex cover glass. As noted, I feel certain it was once a top mounted painting on a snuff or patch box, or bonbon. It is without flaw, no warp and no shrinkage hairline, no loss of paint. Exquisite little work of art. Frame shows some age, but no bends, and I have not ever opened this one to see what might be held within. Sometimes in this type we'll find playing cards, a lover's lock of hair, or something sentimental.
