Early 19th Century Portrait of Stylish Lady, American School

Details

Description

Museum-Quality Oil Portrait on Bone Canvas - Untouched for Generations
From the dusty recesses of a Northern Vermont attic emerges … Read more Museum-Quality Oil Portrait on Bone Canvas - Untouched for Generations
From the dusty recesses of a Northern Vermont attic emerges this extraordinary early American portrait - a testament to Federal period elegance and the mysterious stories hidden in old family collections. This captivating lady, with her elaborate coiffure and knowing smile, has been waiting patiently for over two centuries to enchant a new generation.
Exceptional Artistic Merit:
Painted in luminous oils on wafer-thin bone canvas, this portrait showcases the refined technique of early 19th-century American portraiture. The artist's skill shines in every detail - from the intricate rendering of her elaborate hairdo (a masterpiece of period styling that surely required hours to achieve) to the delicate folds of her pristine white muslin dress.
That Enigmatic Smile:
There's something utterly captivating about her expression - a "sassy smile" that suggests she holds secrets of a bygone era. Her direct gaze and confident bearing speak to the independent spirit of American women in the young republic.
Original Handcrafted Frame:
Set within its original handmade round wooden frame - a beautiful example of period craftsmanship that perfectly complements the intimate scale of the portrait. The 5-inch diameter creates an almost medallion-like quality, typical of the most prized Federal period miniatures.
Vermont Provenance & Condition:

Discovered during professional estate cleanout
Near perfect condition after two centuries
Original frame and canvas intact
Colors remain vibrant and unfaded
No restoration needed - museum ready

Why Collectors Treasure These:

Bone canvas technique increasingly rare
Early American portraiture market extremely strong
Perfect scale for intimate display
Original frame adds significant value
Vermont discovery suggests New England family heritage
Investment-grade American folk art

The Romance of Discovery:
There's something magical about artwork emerging from attic shadows after generations of family custody. This portrait carries not just artistic merit, but the romance of rediscovery and the untold stories of American family life.
Framed diameter: 5" | Portrait approximately 4" diameter
Condition: Near perfect - museum quality
Display Inspiration:
This intimate scale works beautifully:

Gallery wall focal points
Federal period room settings
Collections of early American portraiture
Powder rooms needing sophisticated charm
Bedroom or dressing room intimate spaces

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From the Same Vermont Discovery
This remarkable portrait was part of a larger cache of family treasures. Inquire about other pieces from this exceptional Northern Vermont collection. See less