Large Portrait Of An Aristocrat, European School, Late 17th – Early 18th Century.

A very elegant portrait of a high-ranking young woman, depicted in bust form, wearing a full ermine coat and a richly embroidered bodice. Two red stone ornaments (ruby/garnet)—one concealed in the powdered hairstyle, the other as a pendant on the bodice—refer to the Central European jewelry tradition, evoking the aristocratic milieu of Central Europe/Austro-Hungarianism at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries. The artist plays on the softness of the flesh tones and the sobriety of the dark background to make the texture of the fabric, the relief of the lace, and the metallic sheen of the embroidery resonate. The canvas—original, on its antique stretcher—has recently been restored by our conservator (cleaning, varnishing, stabilization), which now offers a fresh and precise interpretation. The work is presented in a substantial French Louis XIV period frame, in carved and gilded oak, decorated with laurel leaves, flower buds and ribbons, ribboned rush, and a heart-shaped frieze. This frame is not the original one for the canvas, but It is from the period and, with its oval format and highly detailed decoration, forms a convincing visual harmony with the painting. A beautiful decorative piece, full of presence and character. Visible area 54 × 67 cm — with frame: 66 × 76 cm.