IMPORTANT! Intimate! Painted for some very dear one, indeed, this miniature painting is French author, Charles Pinot Duclos (1704-1772). His stunning face of great character and confidence in the relaxed mood of his dressing gown and night shirt, holding a book, most likely his. The paisley of the silk robe he draws across his front with a delicate hand - do you think it's a painting for his lover, and perhaps in celebration of completion of an early book? From this date he went on to be a member of the Academie Français in 1747 and participated in revising its Dictionary, published in 1762. He wrote many books, often quoted. You'll want to research him and read his books, to include biographies of French King Louis XI, XIV and XV, whom he surely knew personally. RARE, rare, rare find. A gem of my collection, and absolutely museum worthy. The painting is in gouache on card, handmade and pressed paper, not the typical wafer. Our artist hasn't signed it, but surely a dedicated art historian could find out who in his circle might have captured this famed author in such a casual circumstance. Housed in a very unique case, etui, the formed back being made of shell, and the old original layers and locket casing with top loop to hang, all intact and excellent for age. This is nearly 300 years old. Measurements are noted on the photos. His face is astounding considering it is 5/8" from double chin to receding forehead. In formal portraits he is in powdered wig, not this casual natural visage.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. There are a few typical bug bites to the shell. No breaks, no losses, and no damage to the painting which is spectacular in every detail. This is the original cover glass, no damage there, either. Beveled edges, canted at the corners, not even a surface abrasion. An exceptional capture of an exceptional man in his own time. Super-rare.
