English Reverse-Painted Oil Portrait on Glass — Nobleman, Circa 1830

English Reverse-Painted Oil Portrait on Glass — Nobleman, Circa 1830

A wonderfully characterful early 19th-century English reverse-painted oil portrait on glass, depicting a distinguished nobleman. Dating from circa 1830 and presented in its original maple frame with silver-gilt slip, this naive school portrait has a charming folk-art quality and strong decorative appeal.

Full Description

A highly appealing English reverse-painted oil portrait on glass, dating from circa 1830 and depicting a distinguished nobleman or aristocratic gentleman. Executed in the naive school or folk-art tradition, the portrait has a wonderfully individual character and an atmospheric quality typical of early 19th-century portraiture.

The unusual reverse oil on glass technique gives the portrait a distinctive appearance, with the image painted to the reverse of the glass and viewed from the front. The simplified treatment of the sitter and restrained palette give the work an engaging naive quality, while the formal presentation suggests the importance placed upon portraiture during the period.

The portrait retains its original maple frame with silver-gilt slip, providing a warm and elegant period setting. The combination of the natural maple and aged gilding complements the portrait beautifully and adds considerably to its decorative appeal.

There are minor losses to the silver-gilt slip and maple frame, commensurate with age. Please see photographs, which form part of the condition report.

This portrait can also be paired with CA047, our similar reverse-painted oil portrait on glass of a nobleman, if still available. Displayed together, the two works would make a particularly striking pair of early 19th-century portraits.

A charming example of English naive school portraiture, combining an unusual painting technique, original period framing and an intriguing aristocratic subject.

Details

Origin: England Date: Circa 1830 Type: Portrait School: Naive School / Folk Art Subject: Nobleman Medium: Reverse-painted oil on glass Frame: Original maple frame Slip: Silver-gilt Dimensions: H 66 cm | W 53 cm | D 2.5 cm Condition: Good antique condition with minor losses to the silver-gilt slip and maple frame, commensurate with age. Please see photographs, which form part of the condition report.

Styling Notes

A highly decorative portrait for a country-house, traditional or eclectic interior. The original maple frame and silver-gilt slip work beautifully alongside antique furniture, mirrors and other period artwork. Particularly effective displayed with CA047 as a complementary pair, if still available.

Delivery

Delivery is not included. Please use the Request Delivery Quote feature beside the ‘Add to Basket’ tab before completing your order. Collection from our Sussex showroom is welcome, and nationwide couriers can be arranged on request.