c.1835 English School Portrait Miniature New Zealand Interest

Fine Art : Portrait Miniatures

 

c.1835 English School Portrait Miniature of a young Lady seated on a chaise-longue, with a table before her on which there are two books, one open at a page with the words “New Zealand” clearly visible; in a glazed, gilded wood frame, probably of the period; watercolor on ivory; 4.6 x 3.5ins (11.7 x 8.9cm) image size.

Considering her dress, and particularly her hairstyle we can confidently date this portrait to c.1835, when significant British settlement in New Zealand, though probably much discussed in higher social circles, was still very much at the planning stage. So, what is the significance of the book in the portrait? Three suggestions come to mind: Perhaps it was merely to indicate that she was educated and well-versed in current affairs of the time; or she was an early settler and the portrait was for the family she left behind; or she intended it for someone else involved with New Zealand settlement and the reference was to show her interest in his or her affairs.

CONDITION: There is a small spot of paint at her collar-bone and some flaking at the left hand edge, this is apparent because the aperture of the frame is slightly wider than the portrait; the skin-tones are very fresh, the green of her dress may be slightly faded.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: Should you buy something from us with which you are not fully satisfied, you may return it for a full refund of the price you paid, including shipping. The only conditions are firstly that you must return it in the same condition as that in which you received it, and secondly that you must notify us of your intention to return it within 7 days from the date you received it (this does not affect your statutory rights and longer periods may be agreed in writing, if required).

AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEE: We completely guarantee our items are authentic as described and should expert appraisal doubt the authenticity of something we have sold, we will help arrange for its return and will refund the purchase price including shipping costs, there and back. The only conditions are that evidence of such opinion from a recognised authority must be provided to us within 24 months from date of purchase and you must return the item in the same condition as that in which you received it.

DESCRIPTION / CONDITION GUARANTEE: We take great care to ensure that what we sell is exactly what we say it is. However, in the unlikely event that we make a mistake and describe something incorrectly or overlook a problem with condition, please notify us within 7 days of receiving it. We will then help you arrange its return and will refund the purchase price including any shipping costs, there and back.

SHIPPING GUARANTEE: We always pack extremely carefully, use only reputable carriers and are experts at shipping very fragile items worldwide. However, if something does arrive damaged, we will help you to arrange its return and we will refund the purchase price and shipping costs, there and back. Likewise, if something we send you fails to arrive within 21 days of the expected delivery time, we will refund your payment in full.

Item ID: RL-0492