This is a fine Antique French oil painting, portrait of Francois Antoine Hilienbrand, (born 12 October 1762, died 15 Apri, 1850). Noted on back that he was Master of the Port aux (at) Chevaux, in Brettany coast (Haute Bretagne), France. and the painting gives a date of 1804, which would put him at age 54, consistent with his distinguished portrait. It is likely this was framed and hung in the Port or the Hotel de Ville (City Hall). A man of importance in such an era, with Napoleon's wars ongoing. I did a quick cursory search to see if I could learn more about this man, but it did not readily come up, but certainly with more digging we would learn more of his story and importance. The old canvas has been taken from whatever frame held it, the canvas bonded (French professional preservation method) and restretched on its wooden stretcher. The attached etiquette likely had been on a paper backing on the original frame, archival transferred, which is wonderful. So often we know nothing about the men and women whose portraits pass through our hands. He has the direct stare and a slight sternness which would have served well in his position, yet kind blue eyes. Measurements noted on photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The painting is 216 years old, presents beautifully. He has an air of a seaman, doesn't he? Once framed, he is quite wonderful as he is. So many of us (and the French) hang paintings sans frame. Too often now, they separate the antique frames and sell off to a separate market, looking for exquisite antique frames for large mirrors for homes now decorated in modern/eclectic manner. A true Paris apartment, to me, will be lined with wonderful old paintings, drawings, framed and not. You know the look.
