Antique Portrait Miniature Painting on Ivory of Royal Duchess, ca 1860

Antiques : Portrait Miniatures

 

This is a very realistic and detailed portrait miniature of Maria Christine (1742-1798), an Austrian Duchess of Teschen, daughter of the great Maria Theresa. It was hand painted in watercolor on ivory in the mid 19th century, ca 1860 in Austria. It depicts the duchess with a high wig in the period style, dressed in lace, flowers, emeralds, and pearls. The back of the miniature has the original label, which is a fine pig leather, with the wonderfully hand-written inscription "Her.. Maria Christine tochter von Maria Theresia." The only part that is no longer visible is the first word (only "Her" remains) and I am sure it once read "Herzogin" for "Duchess." The translation from German is "Duchess Maria Christine daughter of Maria Theresa." It also has a second cloth covering with a more recent label, probably from an early 20th century gallery. It is housed in a gilt frame and convex glass. This is a very beautiful miniature and is NOT one of those quickly-made tourist pieces.

Condition: Excellent. The spots in the photos are all glare from the glass.

Measurements: Frame: 4 1/4 in. x 3 in. Portrait: 3 in. x 2 1/2 in.

Item ID: P-4