French School 18th Century Pastel - Portrait of a Lady

Description

A fine eighteenth-century pastel portrait of a lady fashionably attired in a white dress with fur collar. The work is well presented in a vintage gilt frame with ornate running patterns. Unsigned. On paper laid to canvas.

Condition

Several creases and tears to the paper, as well as some restoration. Areas of water damage to the righthand and lower edges. Overall the condition remains good for a picture of this age. Marks, scuffs, and small losses to the frame.

Size

57 x 49cm (22.4" x 19.3")
Framed Size: 73 x 65cm (28.7" x 25.6")

Collection Information

Pastels enjoyed a surge in popularity in eighteenth century Europe, becoming, for a time, the medium of choice for portraiture. The medium was appreciated for both its practicality and aesthetic qualities. Unlike oil painting, which required cumbersome equipment, multiple sittings, and lengthy drying times, pastels were portable, non-yellowing, and did not require drying time, thereby reducing the number of sittings needed. Their visual qualities, such as their naturalism and strength of colour also made them ideal for portraiture. The brilliant powdery surface that pastels produce reflects the light and enhances the complexion of the sitter. Although initially used for smaller works, innovations in glass manufacturing allowed for pastels to be executed on the same scale as oils. The costly process of making glass also made pastels a luxurious item, and therefore a means of showing the owner’s wealth and prestige.