Object of the Day: An Antique French Portrait

This beautifully rendered portrait was found, unframed in a Dallas antique store. Signed M. Antoine, the painting has all the hallmarks of late Nineteenth Century portraiture which often relied on Classical themes.

Here in startling vivid colors, we see the visage of a young woman—her blonde hair bound in a ribbon which elicits images of ancient Rome. She’s dressed in a simple, embroidered robe. Seen in profile, she is at once both dignified and vulnerable. She gazes ahead with her mouth set in determination and a playful look in her eye.

I can’t really find anything about the identity of the artist. Several painters of the era have combinations of “M” and “Antoine” in their names. Regardless, the artist’s hand and personality are forever preserved in this charming portrait.