Miniature Portrait Of General Jean-baptiste Kléber

France, circa 1800

A large commemorative panel carved from oak in high relief, featuring a miniature portrait of General Jean-Baptiste Kléber (1753–1800) at its center.

The general is depicted in bust form, wearing a richly embroidered blue uniform and adorned with the tricolor sash of the generals of the Republic. This miniature painted on ivory is based on the famous portrait executed around 1798 by Jean-Urbain Guérin, of which several early versions are known.

The oval medallion is set at the center of a spectacular allegorical composition: six putti, several of them winged, move among clouds, drapery, and large palm fronds. The palm fronds, symbols of victory and glory, lend the work a commemorative quality, evoking the apotheosis of the general who was assassinated in Cairo in 1800.

French school, circa 1800, after Jean-Urbain Guérin.

Carved oak; miniature painted on ivory.

Dimensions: 55 × 32 cm.

Very good overall condition. Some signs of wear. The oak backing panel was removed in order to properly reposition and stabilize the miniature.

Asking price: €4,800