Celebrity Portrait Painting Appraisal

Queen Elizabeth II Portrait by Hunt Slonem (Blue)

This item is an original oil painting by artist Hunt Slonem, depicting a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The painting measures 24x16 inches, as indicated by the provided context. It is characterized by its striking monochromatic color palette, rendered primarily in various shades of blue and white. The artist's distinctive style is evident in the heavily textured brushwork, particularly the vertical striations that define the background and contribute to the overall visual effect of the subject's face, crown, and attire. The Queen is depicted frontally, with notable features including her crown, earrings, and necklace, all rendered with thick impasto techniques that create a three-dimensional quality on the canvas. The eyes are particularly expressive, giving the monarch a contemplative or benign gaze. The painting is housed within an ornate, gilded frame that features elaborate scrolling and acanthus leaf motifs, common in Rococo or Baroque revival styles. The frame itself appears to be made of wood, possibly gessoed and gilded, with areas showing a slightly distressed or aged patina, suggesting either intentional aging or minor wear. The condition of the painting itself appears excellent, with no visible cracks, chips, or paint loss. The thick application of paint inherent to Slonem's style is well-preserved. This artwork combines a traditional subject with a modern, expressive artistic approach, making it a unique piece. The specific dimensions and the artist's known style place it as a contemporary artwork, likely created within the last few decades. The craftsmanship is high, both in the painting's execution and the choice of a complementary, substantial frame.