MASTERPIECE Portrait Miniature on Ivory of a Judge, c.1825!

Fine Art : Paintings : Portrait Miniatures

 

Here comes the Judge! Dating to ca. 1820-1830, this beautiful portrait miniature on ivory of a judge is both unique and masterfully painted!

This jewel of a portrait is executed in watercolors on ivory, and is of English origin. The rare, front-facing portrait depicts a young judge, wearing a powdered white wig, a white linen banded collar, and his black judicial robes. His black robes have been highlighted with gouache to show depth of their folds and richness of the fabric. Perhaps this fellow had just passed the bar and this portrait was painted to celebrate his new, important office, as he appears no older than 35, and his fine complexion, dark brown eyebrows, and bright blue eyes still have a youthful quality.

This miniature is special for several reasons; it depicts a judge in full judicial regalia, as if he just stepped off the bench, and the sitter looks straight out at the viewer rather than the typical 3/4 profile typical of Georgian-era portrait miniatures. Behind the sitter is a red velvet curtain, which adds color and dimension to the portrait. Finally, the expression on the sitter's face is one of intelligence and benevolence; I would rather appear before this judge if I had broken the law of the period, as he does not look like the "hanging" sort!

This portait is painted with such an academic hand that I am amazed that it is not signed. The image is so distinct that one would certainly recognize this fellow if you saw him in the street, and the artist has captured his personality just as well as if he had been photographed! This miniature measures 2 7/8" x 2 1/2" sight size, and is in near-mint condition, with no cracks to the ivory or rubbing to the paint.

This wonderful portrait has been framed in a modern rose-gold plated brass frame with glass, which fits the miniature perfectly. The frame has a bail at the top, and is fitted with three pins to the black velvet back. Suitable for display at home or in your workplace, this judge will have his eye on you, and you will be delighted - how often does that happen?

If you collect the finest in portrait miniatures, this example will make a superb addition to your collection. It would also make a fabulous holiday gift for anyone in the legal profession! I do not expect to find another portrait of this subject matter and high quality; do not miss it!

LAYAWAY IS AVAILABLE ON THIS ITEM! Terms are as follows: 30% down, with 60 days to pay the balance. If you are interested in layaway, please do not be shy; just ask!

Item ID: 623