After Peter Paul Rubens - Framed 19th Century Oil Portrait of Susanna Fourment

Description

A fine 19th-century copy after Peter Paul Rubens's (1577–1640) original Bust-length Portrait of a Lady, most certainly depicting Susanna Fourment, Rubens's sister-in-law. The artist captures her fair hair swept back, dark, piercing eyes, flushed cheeks, and pink lips, dressed in a richly embroidered gold bodice set against a dark ground. The original portrait remains in the Louvre, and it is quite possible that this 19th-century artist was inspired by the work while it was on display there. Public institutions such as the Louvre expanded significantly during the 19th century, becoming a hub for art students and professionals who were granted permission to sit before the masterpieces and paint direct replicas. The mid-19th century in particular saw a marked surge in academic copyists. The painting has been sympathetically housed in a modern ebonised Cassetta frame with a punchwork frieze. Unsigned. On canvas.

Condition

Signs of wear consistent with age, including fine craquelure throughout. Light surface discolouration noted, including yellowing to the varnish layer. Inspection under UV light reveals areas of previous restoration. A small tear to the canvas has been previously restored and the canvas relined. The frame is in fine condition.

Size

39.5 x 29.5cm (15.6" x 11.6")
Framed Size: 53.5 x 43cm (21.1" x 16.9")