Early 19th century French miniature.

Early 19th century French miniature.
"Female portrait".
Watercolor.
With tuft of hair on reverse.
Framed hanging with gilt metal border.
It presents wear in the frame.
Measurements: 5 x 4 cm.

French miniature of the early nineteenth century, painted with great detail and delicacy. The portrait is of veristic nature. It represents a young maiden, frontally but slightly turned to the right. She wears a dark blue dress with a plunging neckline adorned with a white scarf or gauze covering part of her chest. Her light brown hair is arranged in loose curls around her face, with an updo and adorned with a white ribbon or bonnet. The background is neutral, with soft gray and blue tones that enhance the figure.

A lock of hair is preserved on the back of the miniature, a common practice at the time as a sentimental or commemorative souvenir.

These types of pieces, common in 18th and 19th century European high society, were used as souvenir medallions or portable portraits, both to show affection and to keep the memory of a loved one alive.