Italy, Early 19th Century. The Three Graces Painted On Slate.

Here is a painting executed in the early 19th century on an unusual support: slate. While it is possible, though not frequent, to find 17th-century paintings, often religious, on this surface, I had never encountered a Neoclassical painting using this technique. Probably made in Italy, in imitation of cameos, with its vibrant blue background and figures painted in grisaille, one cannot help but think of the Wedgwood biscuit porcelain pieces produced around 1830. This object and painting is both intriguing and possesses a striking presence: the paint has a glazed appearance, certainly due to the meticulous sanding required to create a usable surface. If anyone has any information on this type of work, I would be very grateful if they would share their knowledge. It is in excellent condition, with the slate intact. It has its original Empire-style frame.