Victorian Chrystoleagram Portrait of Lady with Fruit, 19th Century, Framed

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A highly decorative late 19th-century Victorian chrystoleagram, depicting an elegantly dressed young woman holding a lavish arrangement of fruit within … Read more A highly decorative late 19th-century Victorian chrystoleagram, depicting an elegantly dressed young woman holding a lavish arrangement of fruit within an atmospheric landscape setting. The sitter is portrayed in elaborate period dress with richly patterned sleeves, delicate lacework and jewellery, holding a tray laden with grapes and other fruit. Her poised expression and refined costume give the composition the romantic elegance characteristic of late Victorian and fin-de-siècle decorative portraiture. Produced using the chrystoleagram photographic process, the image has been treated and enhanced to create a softly painterly appearance, combining the precision of photography with the visual character of traditional portrait painting. The muted sepia and warm tonal palette contributes greatly to its atmospheric period quality. Of particular note is the exceptionally substantial gilt frame, richly moulded with classical foliate ornament, reeded detailing and decorative crossed-ribbon motifs. A narrow velvet-lined surround separates the image from the frame and adds further depth and richness to the presentation. The frame retains an attractive aged surface with areas of wear, rubbing and small losses to the gilt decoration, all consistent with its age and contributing to its authentic antique character. An unusual and visually impressive example of Victorian photographic art, combining period portraiture, early photographic technique and elaborate decorative framing. Period Late 19th Century, circa 1880–1900 Style Victorian Material Hand-finished photographic image, glass, velvet and gilt composition/wood frame Measurements Height: 50 cm / 19.7 in Width: 44 cm / 17.3 in Depth: 9 cm / 3.5 in See less