Miniature Bird In The Style Of Buffon With Feathers, By Hettlinger, Probably Sèvres Late 18th Century.

A miniature in low relief depicting two birds, made of feathers, dating from the late 18th century.

The miniature consists of a painted background on a glass plate, representing a tree in a wooded setting. The birds' feet are also painted. The leaves are made of tinted paper.

The birds' bodies are made of feathers of different colors, creating a work of great delicacy.

These compositions are generally attributed to Jean-Jacques Hettlinger, in comparison to the Louis XVI medal collection by Benneman, now in Versailles. However, there is a real difference with Hettlinger's compositions, which are more elaborate and entirely set in wax.

It is known, on the other hand, that the mother of the animal painter Constant Troyon, who worked at the Sèvres porcelain factory, specialized in designing panels decorated with feathers and butterfly wings. By extension, the wives and daughters of the factory's employees produced this type of work. Our miniature most likely originates from this very particular production.

The miniature is housed in a gilt bronze frame decorated with palmettes and a blackened wood frame.
A domed glass protects the composition.

A very interesting miniature, a testament to the work of the skilled artisans who worked at the Sèvres porcelain factory.

8.3 cm visible area (composition)
12.2 cm diameter (frame)

Good overall condition. Frame has been reattached.

Collection in Paris or shipping via insured Colissimo.

France: €15
Europe: €20
Rest of the World: €35