A 19th-century miniature portrait of a noblewoman, painted in fine detail with her hair adorned in pearls and a jeweled necklace over a dark gown with lace ruff collar. Her calm expression and refined pose reflect the influence of Elizabethan portraiture and the 19th-century fascination with Renaissance revival art. Based upon an earlier miniature painted by Nicholas Hillard, who was the official painter of Elizabethan courtiers.
The portrait is housed under glass within a hand-inlaid ivory frame, decorated with delicate linear etching along the border and radial marquetry around the oval mount. The reverse is covered with an early Latin devotional print, a period feature often found in miniatures. Signed on middle rightmost corner.
Measurements:
3.75" × 3.25"
Materials:
Watercolor on ivory or card, inlaid ivory frame, glass cover
Condition Note:
Small age cracks and slight toning to ivory consistent with age. Minor surface wear to portrait and back paper.
Please keep in mind that these items are vintage and antique, and it's normal to have chips, cracks and minor flaws. Here at Blackbird Grove, we personally feel that these imperfections are what tell the story of the item, and give the items their charm and personality. We love them, and believe that each one will bring a sense of interest and wonder to your home. Please look at photos carefully as we do our best to show all flaws. If you have any questions feel free to send a message!
All sales are final but please feel free to reach out if there is a problem with your order.
