Housed in the original opulent appliqué frame which dates c.1810-30, we know from that and our sitter's clothing the period of history from which his eyes engage us. The painting is surely of an important French gentleman, but we have nothing with the painting to tell us whom. I have not taken all mats/painting, frame apart to search within for more information, and sometimes a signature can be thus found. Or an identification of the subject of the portrait. I will leave that to his next owner. What I can tell you is this artist is fully adept and quite exceptionally gifted in miniature or sized down portraiture. While there's attention enough to his diamond cravat pin, the fold of his black cravat, and the lay of his watch Chaim, it's the eyes, brow, mouth and handsome dignity of his graying hair which will hold your attention. When I purchased this one, I had some hopes that the scumble upper left against the blue drapery, a white something, might turn out to be a signature, but it is, instead, a small flaw. The painting is intimate, meant for a lighted spot below a lamp on side table, or on bookshelf. Or grouped artfully with your collection of small and miniature portraits, as he has been in my home. The frame here is of elevated value, by the way, all on its own. French Empire frames with the elaborate appliqué are often removed from the artwork, sold for enormous sums now to hold mirrors. I prefer the art.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, with the painting being excellent but for the tiny spot of white against the blue drapery. The painting is in water color and gouache on paper/card. Frame's finish is full of age, but the appliqués are fully intact, which is quite rare. One might wish to have it gilded by a framer to return it to its more original high brilliance. One of my favorites - I never mind a bit of honest age. This one is 200 years old.
