Madame Récamier Miniature (after François Gérard) | Gouache on Ivorine | Late 19th–Early 20th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: France (Continental Europe)
Material: Watercolor/gouache on ivorine (celluloid/wafer) under convex glass; turned ebonized wooden frame with brass oval bezel
Period: Late 19th–Early 20th Century (c. 1890–1910)
Description
A charming miniature portrait of Madame Juliette Récamier, executed after the famous portrait by François Gérard. The bust-length sitter turns left, wearing an Empire-style gown with jeweled trim and a gauzy wrap, her dark curls crowned with a delicate bandeau. The image is neatly signed at the lower right (indistinct hand, likely a copyist’s signature) and is presented beneath convex glass within a dished, ebonized round frame. An old paper label to the back reads “GERARD – Mme. Récamier,” confirming the source.
Features
- Finely painted cabinet miniature after Gérard’s Mme. Récamier
- Subtle flesh tones and soft glazing typical of French miniatures of the period
- Convex glazing with brass fillet; original turned ebonized frame
- Old identification label on verso; hanging loop intact
- Elegant, ready-to-hang object for a portrait miniature wall or tabletop stand
Cultural Significance
Madame Récamier (1777–1849) was a Parisian salonnière and style icon of the Consulate and Empire periods. Reproductions after Gérard’s celebrated portrait became sought-after souvenirs among 19th-century collectors, bridging Neoclassical taste and the era’s fascination with intimate, hand-held images.
Condition
Portrait clean and well preserved under glass; slight dust specks and a gentle age tone from time. Ebonized frame with light edge rubs and small nicks; back paper covering with expected losses and scuffing around the hanger. Structurally sound and displays beautifully.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Diameter: 4 in
Age (Approximate)
115–135 years old
Learn More
View a related portrait of Madame Récamier in the Victoria and Albert Museum Collection
Explore our curated Historical Art: Rare Paintings & Collectibles Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: France (Continental Europe)
Material: Watercolor/gouache on ivorine (celluloid/wafer) under convex glass; turned ebonized wooden frame with brass oval bezel
Period: Late 19th–Early 20th Century (c. 1890–1910)
Description
A charming miniature portrait of Madame Juliette Récamier, executed after the famous portrait by François Gérard. The bust-length sitter turns left, wearing an Empire-style gown with jeweled trim and a gauzy wrap, her dark curls crowned with a delicate bandeau. The image is neatly signed at the lower right (indistinct hand, likely a copyist’s signature) and is presented beneath convex glass within a dished, ebonized round frame. An old paper label to the back reads “GERARD – Mme. Récamier,” confirming the source.
Features
- Finely painted cabinet miniature after Gérard’s Mme. Récamier
- Subtle flesh tones and soft glazing typical of French miniatures of the period
- Convex glazing with brass fillet; original turned ebonized frame
- Old identification label on verso; hanging loop intact
- Elegant, ready-to-hang object for a portrait miniature wall or tabletop stand
Cultural Significance
Madame Récamier (1777–1849) was a Parisian salonnière and style icon of the Consulate and Empire periods. Reproductions after Gérard’s celebrated portrait became sought-after souvenirs among 19th-century collectors, bridging Neoclassical taste and the era’s fascination with intimate, hand-held images.
Condition
Portrait clean and well preserved under glass; slight dust specks and a gentle age tone from time. Ebonized frame with light edge rubs and small nicks; back paper covering with expected losses and scuffing around the hanger. Structurally sound and displays beautifully.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Diameter: 4 in
Age (Approximate)
115–135 years old
Learn More
View a related portrait of Madame Récamier in the Victoria and Albert Museum Collection
Explore our curated Historical Art: Rare Paintings & Collectibles Collection
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