Helena Fourment or Hélène Fourment (11 April 1614 – 15 July 1673) was the second wife of Flemish Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens painted her regularly through their marriage, and this painting is done "aprés", or after one of those early paintings. When you visit the Louvre or other museums and see artists with easel set up, doing their renditions of the Old Masters, this is what results. A beautifully interpreted capture of Helena, a thrill of color and so much personality! I purchased this one in France, and the old 19th century frame is actually quite beautiful with it - original to it. The gold pulls the gold in her hair and lights up the space, don't you agree? It has some areas that need restoration, (frame) if you wish to have it very formally excellent. But to my eye, everything about it draws me into her face, eyes, fashion flair and appeal. No wonder he fell in love with her. Measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the painting is superb and is on panel so not going to get holes in a canvas. The old original frame, (both are 19th century) has some knocks as you can see, but it's not a difficult nor expensive restoration should you feel the need. Two inches deep, the wood frame is 17" x 13" and makes wonderful intimate hanging or shelf art. Not a portrait miniature, but an intimate sized painting that bursts with appeal.
