Octagonal Miniature Portrait in Bone/Ivory and Tortoiseshell Frame Appraisal
Category: Decorative Arts/Miniature Portrait
Description
This item is an octagonal miniature portrait, likely dating from the late 18th to early 19th century, given the depicted fashion. The main physical characteristic is its octagonal frame, which appears to be crafted from segments of bone or ivory, inlaid with tortoiseshell accents along the outer edges where the facets meet. The frame surrounds a central circular miniature painting. The painting itself depicts a female figure, bust-length, wearing what appears to be late 18th-century attire, including a large, elaborate feathered hat and a ruffled or lace collar. Her hair is powdered and styled high, indicative of the period. The background features elements of a landscape, possibly incorporating some foliage and sky. The colors in the miniature are muted, dominated by browns, creams, and greens, with a touch of rose in what appears to be a flower held by the subject. The miniature is set behind glass, which shows some visible reflections, making it difficult to discern subtle details of the paint. The frame's segments are precisely cut and fitted, suggesting a degree of craftsmanship. There is a small metal loop or ring at the top of the frame, indicating it was designed to be hung or possibly worn as a pendant. Visible condition issues include potential slight discoloration or darkening of the bone/ivory segments consistent with age, and a fine crack can be observed in one of the frame segments near the top. The tortoiseshell inlay appears stable. No discernible maker's marks or signatures are visible on the front. The overall quality of the item suggests it was a decorative or personal object of some value.
Appraisal Report
Upon examining the octagonal miniature portrait via the provided images, I estimate its period to be late 18th to early 19th century, a timeframe consistent with the depicted fashion. The craftsmanship evident in the precisely cut bone/ivory and tortoiseshell frame is commendable, suggesting a decorative object of some value. Its authenticity as a period piece seems highly probable based on the visual cues. The condition appears fair for its age; I note the characteristic discoloration of bone/ivory and a fine crack in one frame segment, which is a minor detraction. The tortoiseshell inlay, fortunately, appears stable. From a market perspective, miniature portraits from this era have a steady, albeit niche, demand. The octagonal form and mixed-material frame (bone/ivory/tortoiseshell) add an element of rarity and visual interest beyond typical oval or rectangular miniatures. However, the quality of the painting itself, while period-appropriate, does not appear to be by a highly prominent artist, which would significantly increase its value. Factors impacting value include the visible crack, the general condition of the portrait, and the current, somewhat subdued, demand for decorative arts of this type. For full authentication, especially regarding the 'bone/ivory' aspect, an in-person examination is crucial to confirm the material composition (e.g., distinguishing ivory from bone or other substitutes). Further assessment of the miniature's artist, if possible, would require detailed examination under magnification or research into provenance. Without physical inspection, definitively attributing the artist or confirming the material beyond reasonable doubt is limited. Provenance documentation, if available, would also be invaluable in confirming its history and potentially its authenticity.
Appraisal Value
$400-600