Hair Painting, Sentimental Work From The Late 18th/early 19th Century

A rare and moving hair painting dating from the late 18th or early 19th century, presented in its original wooden frame. The composition on the support is made entirely of human hair of different shades, enhanced with gouache and/or watercolour. It depicts a finely executed allegorical scene: in the centre, an altar surmounted by two hearts united under a suspended decoration, probably symbols of union and attachment.
The whole is set in a landscape composed of trees, foliage and animals, treated using various hair techniques, revealing true skill and mastery of this delicate art.
The pedestal bears the inscription: ‘UNION – GENTLENESS – FIDELITY’, a motto imbued with the moral and sentimental sensibility of the period, reinforcing the hypothesis that this hairwork was created for a wedding or a significant family event.
On the reverse, a handwritten text entitled ‘Explanation’ details with great precision the origin of the hair used, mentioning several first names and their exact location within the composition. This exceptional document gives the work a rare memorial and family dimension, making this object a particularly precious intimate testimony of its time.
A rare object with strong historical and emotional significance, appreciated both for the quality of its execution and for the remarkable presence of its handwritten explanatory text.

Condition: The overall condition is very good, with wear and tear consistent with the age and nature of the materials. Note two areas of loss at the top right of the support, accompanied by three cracks.
PHOTOS SERVE AS DESCRIPTION. For other photos, please contact me.

Signature: none.
Period: late 18th/early 19th century.

Dimensions:
Subject visible: Length 8.8 cm – Height 8.5 cm.
Frame: Length 16.5 cm – Height 16.5 cm.

For information: the price indicated is without shipping.
For more paintings and objects, go to: aenigmattic.fr  or on my instagram: @aenigmatticshopnice
If you sell curiosities, please write me.
For more pictures, please contact me.