Framed Portrait Drawing Appraisal

Framed Portrait Drawing of a Young Woman

This item is a framed portrait drawing depicting the bust of a young woman, likely rendered in charcoal, pastel, or sanguine on paper. The artwork is characterized by subtle shading and a monochromatic or near-monochromatic palette, suggesting sepia tones or earthy browns. The subject has short, dark hair, a gentle expression, and is looking slightly towards the viewer with a faint smile. Her attire appears to be simple, possibly a dress or blouse with a rounded neckline. The drawing style suggests a classical or academic approach to portraiture, focusing on realism and the delicate rendering of facial features. The visible signature or inscription at the bottom right corner of the artwork is partially obscured by glare but appears to be a cursive signature, possibly accompanied by a date or additional details. The drawing is housed within a contemporary white or off-white wooden frame, a simple flat profile, and is protected by a pane of glass. Reflections on the glass make it difficult to fully assess the artwork's details and condition, but they also indicate the presence of a protective layer. The frame includes a wide, off-white or light-colored mat board, which creates space between the artwork and the frame's edge. The overall size of the framed piece appears substantial, suitable for display as a prominent wall art. Based on the style and frame, it could date from the mid-20th century to more contemporary times, possibly 1950s-1970s if the signature includes a date like '59 as seen in the top right of another item. The quality of the drawing appears to be good, demonstrating skilled draftsmanship in capturing human likeness and expression. There are no overt signs of damage or wear visible on the drawing itself through the glass, though the frame shows minor wear consistent with handling.