This one is special! The case, itself, is a fine and rare antique in near-excellent condition, c.1750-70 finest shagreen or 'galuchat' in French (leather from belly of stingray). What it opens to reveal is more spectacular, still. A stunning portrait miniature of a child in such fine miniature, oddly painted on a round wafer. I'm quite sure, however, it was meant for this case. I have not taken it from the convex glass and intact mount. I've shown the back, the old original 1700s vellum backing intact. The front thin facing of the otherwise brass mount or frame appears to be karat gold, but I have not tested it. It's thin, I see no way to test without leaving a gouge/scratch. Just a stunning capture of a beautiful child, the early reddish blond hair which soon turns to an auburn highlighted brunette, and with blue eyes. The delicate handling of that 3/4" face is remarkable, and the dotted Swiss cotton gathered gown is just elegant in this artist's hand. No ID.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, age and type considered. The portrait miniature is superb in all aspects. The original convex-rectangular cover glass is a glassmaker's masterpiece. The exquisitely preserved shagreen etui, case, is unstained, in its entirety whole, and has the very light flaw of a slight warp to the lid, making the clasp closure slightly tricky, but not impossible. The one hinge at top of case has come dislodged from bottom on one end, and can be repaired. I'll have Rick look at it, but at listing, it is unattached to one spot (see images). Measurements are noted on the photos. RARE! This one will not last in inventory, now that I've opted to sell. My collection is being disbursed. Don't miss out!
