17th-century Portrait Of A Court Dwarf.
Artist: à étudier
A fascinating painting well worth studying, created by a notable court portraitist active in Italy during the second half of the 17th century.
The subject appears to be a woman with dwarfism; in fact, between the Renaissance and the 17th century, such figures were not merely a curiosity but held prominent roles as ladies-in-waiting, confidantes, and symbolic representations of dynastic prestige. The woman is depicted in a three-quarter profile, leaning slightly toward the viewer, with her shoulder positioned so she can hold a straw basket containing a floral arrangement—an allegorical allusion to youth and the enduring nature of life.
The high rank of the young woman portrayed is evident from the richness and quality of the fabrics she wears and from her solemn pose, with a proud gaze directed toward the viewer. The background is very dark—a neutral, intense blackish brown—which serves to highlight her very fair complexion and the sheen of the fabrics. In this case, the painter has enriched the portrait with a heavy dark green velvet drapery featuring gilded pleated borders.
This is undoubtedly a painting executed in the last quarter of the 17th century by an artist working at a court or for a high-ranking noble family, which warrants further investigation as it may reveal some surprises regarding its attribution
Perhaps a portrait painter from the Lombard school?
The condition of this painting is excellent, although it likely underwent a restoration in the 19th century or early 20th century involving heat-pressing, which may have affected the original interpretation of the work.
The painting measures: Canvas: 50 cm x 60 cm;
Frame: 67 cm x 77 cm
A certificate of authenticity is included with the sale.
The subject appears to be a woman with dwarfism; in fact, between the Renaissance and the 17th century, such figures were not merely a curiosity but held prominent roles as ladies-in-waiting, confidantes, and symbolic representations of dynastic prestige. The woman is depicted in a three-quarter profile, leaning slightly toward the viewer, with her shoulder positioned so she can hold a straw basket containing a floral arrangement—an allegorical allusion to youth and the enduring nature of life.
The high rank of the young woman portrayed is evident from the richness and quality of the fabrics she wears and from her solemn pose, with a proud gaze directed toward the viewer. The background is very dark—a neutral, intense blackish brown—which serves to highlight her very fair complexion and the sheen of the fabrics. In this case, the painter has enriched the portrait with a heavy dark green velvet drapery featuring gilded pleated borders.
This is undoubtedly a painting executed in the last quarter of the 17th century by an artist working at a court or for a high-ranking noble family, which warrants further investigation as it may reveal some surprises regarding its attribution
Perhaps a portrait painter from the Lombard school?
The condition of this painting is excellent, although it likely underwent a restoration in the 19th century or early 20th century involving heat-pressing, which may have affected the original interpretation of the work.
The painting measures: Canvas: 50 cm x 60 cm;
Frame: 67 cm x 77 cm
A certificate of authenticity is included with the sale.
4 200 €
Period: 17th century
Style: Louis 14th, Regency
Condition: Excellent condition
Material: Oil painting
Length: 50 - 67
Height: 60 - 77
Reference (ID): 1838033
Availability: In stock
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