19th Century French Hand-Colored Portrait Medallions of Royal Figures, Set of 5

$1,800

About

Decorate a study, hallway, or powder room with this charming suite of five antique portrait medallions celebrating notable personalities of French history. Crafted in France circa 1870, each miniature portrait is displayed beneath convex glass and mounted within a square walnut frame featuring a deeply turned circular recess and a gilt metal liner that highlights the composition. The hand-colored lithographic portraits depict celebrated figures of the late 18th and early 19th centuries including Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, Empress Joséphine, and the famed Parisian beauty and salon hostess Madame Récamier. Each portrait shows delicate facial features, period hairstyles, and richly colored attire that evoke the refinement of the French court and Napoleonic society. Each portrait is surrounded by a gilt metal bezel and protected by convex glass, enhancing the sense of depth and giving the miniatures the character of traditional portrait medallions. The walnut frames display a warm and rich patina with subtle variations in tone and grain, adding to their authentic timeworn charm. The reverse of each frame retains its original backing composed of antique French printed book pages, a traditional 19th century framing technique that further confirms the age and authenticity of the pieces. The frames are fitted with small metal hanging rings and were designed to be displayed together as a decorative gallery grouping. Excellent antique condition commensurate with age and use. Dimensions of each: 5″W x 5″H

Additional information