An exquisite antique Georgian era portrait miniature pendant of a beautiful and fashionable society lady. Circa 1760, and likely French in origin it harkens back to a time when portrait miniatures were cherished as intimate keepsakes and sentimental love tokens.
The bust-length portrait is beautifully rendered in softly shaded watercolour on ivory and is signed by the artist to the left. The sitter gazes wistfully to her right, her expression serene and contemplative. She wears a delicate blue gown adorned with a sheer white fichu gracefully arranged about her décolletage.
Charming and intimate in detail, a portrait miniature is pinned to the front of her own bodice — a touching adornment that adds narrative intrigue. She is further embellished with long, dangling pearl earrings and a dainty necklace.
Her huge powdered pale grey coiffure, elaborately dressed in cascading curls and ornamented with feathers and ribbons, reflects the extravagant aesthetic of pre-Revolutionary court fashion associated with the circle of Marie Antoinette.
The miniature is housed beneath glass within an intricate turquoise-set gold ormolu pendant frame, complete with a bale for suspension. Ormolu (a luxurious 18th-century French gilding technique) involved blending powdered high-carat gold with mercury before firing it onto metal to achieve its rich, glowing finish.
The reverse retains its period black textured card backing, sealed with a glossy shellac-type finish so that the portrait is fully enclosed, secure and well protected. The miniature comes complete with the original oval burgundy leather case in which it was discovered — an increasingly rare accompaniment and a survivor in its own right. Notably large in size the miniature could be worn as an occasional statement pendant or just kept as part of a carefully curated collection.
A compelling and deeply romantic example of aristocratic portraiture from the twilight of the "ancien régime" in France, it embodies the fragile beauty and poignant splendour of a world poised on the brink of irrevocable change.
DETAILS:
SIZE: 4" (10cm) x 3-1/4" (8.5m)
DATE: Georgian, circa 1760
SIGNATURE: difficult to decipher but appears to be Devś
CONDITION: in very good antique condition showing light age appropriate surface wear overall. The painting remains fresh and clearly visible, there's a small white patch visible near the top lip, other white areas are reflections. The antique case is in an aged condition with heavier surface wear adding to its antique charm.
At Mercy Madge, we specialise in quality antique and vintage jewellery, carefully sourced throughout Great Britain. Every piece is professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring it is ready to wear, enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
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