Napoleon Height 2 in., Width 1.75 in. Framed Height 3.25 in., Width 2.25 in. Framed Weight 1.3 oz. This finely painted oval portrait miniature on porcelain depicts Napoleon Bonaparte in a three quarter view bust portrait, the Emperor shown in his characteristic green uniform coat with gold epaulettes, ermine collar and the star of the Legion of Honor at his breast, his expression characteristically composed and imperious against a warm brown ground. The porcelain painting technique -- with its smooth enamel surface, precise academic modeling of the face and refined color gradations from shadow to highlight -- is consistent with French porcelain miniature painting of the mid to late 19th century, a period when Napoleonic imagery enjoyed enormous popular and commercial revival under the Second Empire and Third Republic. The oval plaque is set in an original gilt bronze frame with a cast acanthus leaf border surround and a ribbon bow crest at the top -- a form of small display frame closely associated with French 19th century Napoleonic souvenir and presentation objects. This is a companion piece in theme to the Baron Gerard signed miniature on bone plate, though the two works differ in medium, format and likely date, together forming a strong Napoleonic grouping within the auction. Condition is very good with the porcelain painting well preserved and the gilt bronze frame retaining good detail with natural age patina throughout.
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