Rare Fine French Empire Portrait Miniature, 15k Gold Frame, Pearl Tiara, Diadem

A stunning fine early 1800s French portrait miniature of finest quality, housed in a locket-style frame of 15k yellow gold. This round faced beauty is elegant in her off-shoulder black silk satin gown and her pearls and pearl-studded Empire diadem, tiara to set it all off. Soulful eyes under dramatic brows and all those Empire curls cascading, she’s one of the finest little paintings ever. I do not find a signature, but surely one of the listed portraitists of her time. I haven’t taken the locket frame apart to get a scan which would show you how much more fine detail this painting has than our digital images show. It might well be that there is a signature on the outer perimeter of the oval wafer, or on back. Likewise, we do not know who this lovely woman is, sadly, but I’ve been hanging onto her for her immense personal appeal.

Very good to excellent condition for age and type. Acid test a yes at high 15k and a no at 18k so probably either 15k or 16k, and the color of the gold is yellow. The slightly convex cover glass over the painting is in pristine original condition, as is the painting. The frame is one for 2 portraits, or for a lock of woven hair on backside, as we often find them. But this one does not have the cover glass on that back side. Lovely for display, and perhaps even to wear as jewelry if you’re inclined, but be aware the backside is missing glass. Tight and stable, however, and perfect to display. Frame is 2 5/8″ x 2 1/4″ oval and it is over 1/4″ in depth as you see it here.