Fine Antique French Portrait Miniature, Gentleman c. 1780-1800 Nobelman in Frame

One immediately notices the glow from the face of this distinguished gentleman and the crisp white of his collar and cravat. Once opened to clean the cover glass ahead of photos, I could easily find the reason why. This one still has the thin layer of silver (foil) which is attached to the back of the wafer, and still reflects through the very thin wafer as a mirror reflects light. So the face takes on a more lifelike skin tone, and also draws the eye. That foil is missing from most portrait miniatures. This one still was sealed to its cover glass with that thin material you see on backside, therefore the foil remained within, too. That said, a superb and handsome man in his seniority, perhaps much younger than we'd guess, and the artist has captured him beautifully yet has not left a signature. Look, though, at the eyes. That face is only 5/8", chin to hairline, and yet his artist caught a lively glint of light on his eyes, as well as his elegance. Full measurements noted on photos. V