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Early 19th Century, Hand-Painted Portrait on Porcelain NWS 5-564 ~ Perhaps she is a Grand Duchess or maybe a Woman of The Queen's Court? Whoever she was, it is plain to see that she was a natural beauty! Her hair is curled into a halo around her porcelain white skin. The portraitist painted her perfectly, right down to the last detail. Look at her slightly rouged cheeks, and her luscious rose bud lips! The green velvet of her dress matches her elaborate hat, which is crowned with large ostrich plumes that have been dyed white, red and pink, and has a large magenta satin ribbon tied at the back. Magnificent! ~ Her dress is low cut and is edged with several rows of the finest French lace, and at her bosom's center is a matching magenta satin bow. ~ Clearly this is a portrait of a wealthy, important lady. She began as a portrait on porcelain; such portraits were commonly done in the 18th and 19th centuries. She was then removed from her original frame - probably by a descendant - and placed into a sterling silver buckle frame. Subsequently, she was placed, along with the buckle frame, into an ornate, 19th century, brass portrait or cameo frame. Heirs frequently changed frames and uses of jewelry, as women's styles came in and out of fashion, so it's not unusual to see that a piece has had adaptations. The fact that the portrait has survived these many years in such great condition is VERY unusual. ~ Including the frame, this magnificent brooch measures 2.5" high and 2" wide. ~ It retains its original pin stem and "C" clasp. c.1860 (portrait), best guess, she is in remarkably good condition for her age. No chips, cracks, or repairs. This is not a transferware piece, but, again, was hand painted. Price = |
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