Antique 18thc French Portrait Miniature Woman Signed Dumont Seed Pearlgilt Frame

Antique Late 18th Century French Portrait Miniature of a Lady, Signed Dumont, extremely rare Seed Pearl Gilt Filigree Frame

An elegant late 18th-century French portrait miniature depicting a young woman in aristocratic attire, signed “Dumont” in the lower right and attributed to François Dumont (1751–1831), the celebrated French portrait miniaturist known for his refined depictions of members of the French aristocracy.

The sitter is portrayed in three-quarter view with softly powdered hair tied with a pale blue ribbon. She wears a delicate blue gown complemented by a white fichu draped across the shoulders. The portrait is executed in finely stippled translucent watercolor on ivory, a technique characteristic of high-quality French miniature painting of the late Louis XVI period, allowing for the luminous rendering of flesh tones and subtle facial modelling.

The oval miniature is mounted within an exceptional 18th century hand made rectangular gilt metal filigree frame, richly decorated with delicate scroll and loop wirework. The inner oval border is set with a continuous row of seed pearls, while four larger pearls accent the corners of the outer rectangular frame. The top features an ornamental pierced crest incorporating the original hanging loop. The gilding displays a warm aged patina consistent with late 18th-century workmanship.

The reverse is fitted with a deep blue backing behind an oval protective glass pane and displays a central cursive monogram “P.”

Portrait miniatures of this quality were treasured personal objects during the late 18th century and were often worn or displayed as intimate keepsakes among the aristocracy.

Artist: François Dumont (1751–1831), signed

Origin: France

Date: Circa 1780–1800

Medium: Watercolour on ivory

Frame: Gilt metal filigree with seed pearls

Dimensions:

Height: 6.5 cm

Width: 5.8 cm

Weight:

41.8 grams

Ivory Act Compliance:

This item contains a portrait miniature on ivory and qualifies for exemption under the UK Ivory Act (portrait miniature exemption).

Submission Reference: KDBF1L3J

Condition:

Very good antique condition with minor wear consistent with age. The miniature remains vibrant and well preserved, and the frame retains its original patina.