Antique c.1835s French Portrait Drawing, Sketch of Young Woman, Ingres?, Frame
A stunning example of the Ingres school of pencil portraiture, early 1800s, France. While it is not signed by that artist, there is some evidence in the letters of the notation on the painting that it might well be by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (1780-1867, Paris). Better known for his magnificent paintings (yes, THAT Ingres). Since it isn't technically signed, one has to look at the dedication the artist wrote on the drawing. "Mars" being the month (March) and not the name of the friend or child of friends who is his subject. These delicate and elegant vignette portraits are a personal favorite of mine. They show all the artistry, but are informal and charming. I once enjoyed them en masse in a special exhibition in Paris at the Grand Palais, and have never forgotten the intimacy and appeal of them. Were I near an authenticator, I'd have them rule out or confirm that this is a drawing by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres. Lacking that, I can only tell you it has every indication of bein