Dating earliest 1800s, this hand painted miniature portrait is exceptionally appealing and fine. Etherial wisps of fabric of her white Empire gown give movement, and the 3/4 sidelong pose is elegant and almost flirty, isnât it. The swan topped wood panel frame has an elaborate mat, much nicer than these usually are, and the figure of a swan is also quite unique. The portrait is beautifully done, look at the huge enlargement of her face - the expressiveness of her eyes. I do not find a signature, sadly, but the work is that of a very talented miniaturist. A very typical outfit and hair style from the Napoleonic era, she has a look of Josephine Bonaparte, doesnât she. The old original slightly convex cover glass is there, compete, in fine form and has protected the painting for 200+ years without flaw. There is a small hanging wire, ready to hand in display. These are their own delightful collection item, but they're also fabulous as paintings in your Bru or other antique French doll's house or setting.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, weâve shown this one greatly enlarged, but keep in mind all of that superb tint and detail is on a face that only measures 5/8" tall to the bangs of hair. The full measurements are noted on our photos. The little painting is not warped nor cracked, nor chipped. She is painted in guoache or watercolor on wafer, backed by a French newspaper (rag paper, not vellum). I'll be disbursing most of my own collection of fine antique portrait miniatures over the upcoming year or so. Be sure to mark our shop and come back.
