Antique French oil portrait of a lady, painted circa 1790–1800, during the transitional period between late Rococo and early Neoclassicism.
The sitter is depicted wearing traditional late-18th-century attire: a lace bonnet, a soft neck scarf (fichu), and a restrained dress typical of the French bourgeoisie of the time. The clothing reflects the post-revolutionary shift toward simplicity, modesty, and natural elegance.
The portrait is executed with strong attention to facial expression and individuality, indicating that it was painted from life. The restrained palette, calm expression, and absence of decorative excess are all characteristic of French portraiture from this period.
The painting retains its original canvas and stretcher and shows natural age-related craquelure consistent with late 18th-century works.
Details:
• Dimensions: Height: 47 cm / 18.5 in; Width: 39 cm / 15.4 in
• Condition: This piece is an original antique painting dating to the late 18th century. The painting shows natural signs of age and historical use. At some point in the 19th or early 20th century, the canvas underwent professional conservation, including structural reinforcement and stabilization. Later conservation work includes: Stabilization of the canvas with old textile patches on the reverse Minor retouching in areas of paint loss Aged varnish layer with visible craquelure typical for the period The paint layer is stable. No active flaking. The original stretcher is preserved. The surface shows age-related craquelure and patina consistent with an authentic antique painting. This artwork is offered as a genuine historical piece with visible signs of age and restoration, which are consistent with its age and origin.
(The photographs form an integral part of the description.)
A well-placed antique does more than decorate a room - it gives it authorship. Against a contemporary interior, older objects introduce texture, balance and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated by newly made pieces alone.
This is the principle behind the LÜRON selection. We look for works that carry historical character with ease, and that feel as convincing in a Paris apartment as they do in a more modern architectural setting.
