An exquisite antique miniature woodland landscape painting, delicately executed in watercolour with gouache highlights on ivorine. The scene depicts a misty forest path carpeted with luminous spring primroses, painted with remarkable softness and atmosphere despite its tiny scale. Measuring just 2.5cm (1 inch) — scarcely larger than a postage stamp — the miniature possesses an intimacy and refinement that is difficult to fully appreciate until seen in person.
The painting is signed lower left, most likely “S. A. Burcham,” and is mounted within its original gilt metal frame fitted with a hinged suspension loop and gently convex glass designed to subtly magnify and enhance the finely painted details.
Most remarkably, the miniature survives housed in its original blue leather double-door cabinet presentation case lined in silk and velvet, complete with easel stand to the reverse so the piece may be displayed when opened. Both protective and decorative, the fitted case greatly enhances the charm and collectability of the piece and gives it the character of an elegant Edwardian cabinet object or luxury gift piece.
The frame is stamped “Moseley – England.” Moseley (or Moseley Ware), the trade name used by Messrs Matthias Watts, produced high quality miniature frames, photograph frames, jewellers’ display rims, and presentation cases in England during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
A particularly charming and beautifully preserved example of early 20th century miniature art.
DETAILS:
PAINTING: size 1"/2.5cm by 7/8"/2.1cm. Signed lower left, most likely “S. A. Burcham”
FRAME: size 2-3/4"/7cm by 2-1/4"/5.5cm
CASE: size 4-1/2"/12cm by 4"/10cm
DATE: Edwardian, circa 1910
CONDITION: In very good antique condition showing expected signs of age including gentle patina to the gilt metal frame and fading to the silk-lined case interior. The painting itself remains vibrant and free from damage. Any white spots or streaks visible in photographs are reflections from the glass.
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At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
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* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
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