Portrait Miniature Of A Polytechnique Student, Gouache On Paper, Circa 1880–1910

 Portrait Miniature of a Polytechnique Student (Élève de l’École Polytechnique)
Gouache on paper, circa 1880–1910
Date: Circa 1880–1910 (Third Republic)
Diameter: 7 cm (2.75 in); 8 cm (3.15 in) with frame

Condition: The protective glass has small chips that are more visible under oblique lighting. The miniature itself shows minor signs of wear and scuffing, with no noticeable loss, which is consistent with its age.

A finely painted circular portrait miniature depicting a young French officer cadet in the distinctive dress uniform of the École Polytechnique, shown in three-quarter profile. He wears the school’s characteristic bicorne hat with tricolour cockade, and a dark tunic with gold buttons and epaulette, set against a soft blue-grey ground. The sitter’s fair complexion, moustache, and direct gaze are rendered with delicate, precise brushwork typical of French miniature portraiture of the Third Republic period. Unsigned. Presented in its original gilt-metal circular frame with suspension loop.