De Gault (dlg): Small Box Adorned With A Miniature Portrait In Bluework, Encircled In Gold. 18th Century

Charming little box adorned with a miniature portrait.

The box is round and made of portoisechell. The gold-rimmed lid features a portrait in grisaille (a neologism coined by Blaise Cendrars, derived from grisaille) of a young woman in profile. She has a Greek-style hairstyle and wears a light chemise, fashionable in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

This style of portrait in grisaille on a blue background is typical of the work of Jacques-Joseph de Gault (1738-1812) and inspired many contemporary painters, including the artist of our miniature.

The rim is not hallmarked but has been tested for 14k gold.

There is a trace of a signature in the lower right corner, unfortunately illegible due to paint loss.

A superb box, particularly unusual due to its small size, which makes it absolutely charming.

4.5 cm in diameter
2 cm in height

20.40 grams

Good condition. Minor paint losses on the blue background. A few insignificant chips to the scales.

Collection in person in Paris or shipping via insured Colissimo.

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