Europe, Continental School, ca. late 18th century. A bust-length, oval, oil on canvas portrait of a finely dressed gentleman, perhaps an officer, wearing a royal blue vest with gilded buttons and a white scarf tied around his neck. A red and white striped flag, with a delicate floral pattern embroidered upon the white stripes, is wrapped around his shoulders. The gentleman also dons a long, curly, Louis XIV style powdered wig (peruke) typical of the period, and looks out with his proud visage comprised of wide-open eyes, arched brows leading to his prominent nose, full closed lips with a defined philtrum above them, and a double chin indicative of his well-off status. Size of painting: 29.375" L x 23" W (74.6 cm x 58.4 cm) Size of frame: 37.4" L x 31" W (95 cm x 78.7 cm)

While his torso is angled ever so slightly, his face looks directly at the viewer, suggesting poise and confidence. Clearly, this sitter was a man of high stature, given his dress and the presence of the flag, as well as relatively advanced age, given his jowls and double chin. The noble portrait is nicely complemented by an ornately carved, gold-tone, oval frame.

Provenance: private J. P. collection, Rye, Colorado, USA; ex Bill Buffinger collection, Hollywood, California, USA, purchased February 4, 1997; ex Nicholson's Antiques, Laguna Beach, California, USA

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#166158

Painting has darkened with age and would benefit from a professional cleaning. White pigment was likely touched up at some point. Areas of craquelure grace the canvas. Verso has also darkened and presents with areas of stains. The remains of a red wax seal is located on the lower stretchers. Stretchers are original and present with expected age wear, nicks, and inactive insect holes. Some nicks and fissures to the frame (which dates later than the portrait), but otherwise, it is very nice and wired for suspension.