European, French, oil on canvas, 19th century. An early 19th century French portrait of a gentleman mounted in a gilded period frame. The sitter is depicted bust length donning a fine black jacket with a white dress shirt and a black d'Orsay style cravat - an ensemble that was the forerunner of today's black tie tuxedo. Middle aged and clearly important, this well-dressed gentleman looks out toward the viewer with a handsome, mature visage. The artist certainly aimed to capture the gentleman's advanced age and lifetime of accomplishments. Crows feet frame his piercing hazel eyes; wrinkles mark his forehead and nasolabial folds; and a full head of wavy salt-and-pepper hair crowns his proud expression. The background is painted in warm gold and umber hues that complement the portrait quite nicely. Finally, the painting is mounted in an attractive gilded frame with a beautiful decorative molding. Size (painting): 24.25" L x 20" W (61.6 cm x 50.8 cm) Size (frame): 28.25" L x 24.25" W (71.8 cm x 61.6 cm) Please note: the gilding on the frame has been tested via x-ray flourescence and results show that it contains 50-78% gold. Pigments were tested as well and are consistent with the period.

The following inscriptions are on the verso of the canvas: "30 ANS Retouche en 1859 62 ANS" (30 years / retouched in 1859 / 62 years) AND "P'ime Kuhn / 1827" perhaps indicating the sitter's or the artist's name and the year the portrait was painted.

Provenance: private Greenwood Village, Colorado, USA collection

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#178626

Expected age wear with craquelure as shown. Verso of canvas has darkened with age. The following inscriptions are on the verso of the canvas: "30 ANS Retouche en 1859 62 ANS" (30 years / retouched in 1859 / 62 years) AND "P'ime Kuhn / 1827" perhaps indicating the sitter's or the artist's name and the year the portrait was painted. Frame also presents with surface wear commensurate with age, a few chips and abrasions to gilding. Fit with old suspension hooks and wire which we would recommend replacing with new wire. Please note: the gilding on the frame has been tested via x-ray flourescence and results show that it contains 50-78% gold. Pigments were tested as well and are consistent with the period.