Tombstones have always attempted to convey some personal information about the deceased, and the paintings, needleworks and other tributes that came afterward would also have hints of the person’s character.; In this wonderful early French example, the maker embellished the painting with natural materials as well as some bits of incredibly small embroidery. The dear departed must have been truly loved as the work involved is among the tiniest I have seen. The following description of the work was only possible with the aid of a magnifying glass.; The tombstone has some elaborately inscribed initials in a circular cartouche. Floating above it are two conjoined hearts and a halo or crown. Just to the right is a small tree that was created with tiny pieces of dried, veined leaves. There also are some other naturalistic materials added to the tree. The dog was first drawn in and then filled in with a thick application of gold paint.; One of the most interesting aspects of this miniature memorial picture is the decorative border. It was made with natural materials and then embroidered with a crewel stitch in several places. In some instances, the pieces of natural materials were shaved to make small loops, while in other places the materials used were placed to resemble flower petals. The whole effect of this collage-like endeavor is absolutely mesmerizing and delightful. The fact that it was done in such tiny detail makes it all the more fascinating.; I believe that the work was done over a fine piece of silk. The silk was then placed over some card. The background was painted in watercolor in soft shades of blue and pink.; It is housed in a wooden frame, turned to fit the painting, and features convex glass over it. A narrow brass band serves as a small frame around the work.; On the back is a very old and stained piece of thin card with French writing that I could not make out even with the aid of my magnifying glass.; The condition of this piece, considering its age of well over 200 years, is excellent. The glass has some accumulated dust underneath. (I have not removed the glass to clean it due to the fragility of the piece.); The work itself measures 3-1/2 inches in diameter. The piece measures 6-1/4 inches square with the frame.

Reserve: $495.00

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