A wonderfully expressive 19th-century miniature portrait of a gentleman, complete with tiny wire spectacles, high collar and cravat. Likely circa 1820–1840.
Measurements 4.75" H × 4.25" W overall
Why I Love It
Hand-painted miniature portrait of a gentleman wearing spectacles
Beautiful period details including his high white collar, cravat and tailored coat
Indistinctly signed along the lower right edge
Oval gilt-metal inner surround with delicate foliate decoration
Deep oval black surround set within a rectangular black frame
Original-looking hanging loop and wonderfully aged paper backing
The small scale makes it especially good tucked into a gallery wall or layered on a shelf
Condition
Antique condition with age-related wear throughout
Scattered surface discoloration, spotting and small areas of paint/pigment loss visible on the portrait
Wear and oxidation to the gilt-metal surround
Black papier-mâché/composition frame has light surface and edge wear consistent with age
Frame material has not been tested
Paper backing is heavily aged, torn and deteriorated in areas
Signature is present but indistinct; artist has not been identified
