I've long collected fine portrait miniatures, and it never ceases to amaze me how much a Master miniaturist could capture in a face so small. This one in particular, only 5/8" from chin to hairline, is so delicately colored, shaded, and vies with the full-sized portraits of the era. Still a beauty as a matron, her natural beauty captures the eye and imagination. She wears the extra large lace bonnet we see in fashion late 1700s, from which she looks out at us. The interesting jeweled cruciform necklace she wears on a black braid is much like those of Sweden/Norway, perhaps hinting at her heritage. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, age and type considered. The wafer upon which she is painted is in pristine condition, yet no signature to be found. Original frame with frontispiece of gold over brass, I have a sense that this at one time was atop a snuff box. Original vellum backing and the slightly convex cover glass are also in fine condition. A special beauty!
