Portrait Of Ninon De Lenclos, 18th-century Watercolor With Paper Doves, Louis XIII-era Frame

French School, after a work by Louis-Ferdinand Elle dit l'Aîné, Portrait of Ninon de Lenclos, watercolor on paper, 18th century.

This portrait of the famous 17th-century courtesan and letter-writer century—whom Horace Walpole would posthumously nickname “Our Lady of Love”—is inspired by the painting housed at the Palace of Versailles under inventory number MV.5647. The figure conforms to the beauty standards of the time, a fitting portrayal of this celebrated figure from the reigns of Louis XIII and Louis XIV, who had turned her assets (to which she added a sharp wit) into a lucrative profession.

With a high forehead, pale complexion, a small, subtly mischievous mouth, a full neck, and opulent curls at the temples; adorned with gemstones, ribbons, and pearls, she stands out in a medallion with an illusionistic three-dimensional quality, in the style of engravings often featured as frontispieces. 

The mounting is particularly charming and interesting, with two paper-cut doves against a background of roses and a quiver, positioned at the front of the sheet, evoking the vocation of this famous courtesan of the Grand Siècle. 

Finally, the frame is from the Louis XIII period and is in good overall condition; note its beautiful patina, along with a few chips, missing pieces, and restorations, which are documented as clearly as possible in the photographs. It is a major asset to the charm of this small portrait, which has retained its very fresh colors. 

Visible dimensions: 11.5 x 8.5 cm