Jean-Baptiste Isabey (1767–1855), Circle of - Portret van een Kind - No Reserve

Artist: Circle of Jean-Baptiste Isabey (1767–1855)
Medium: Maroufle (oil paint on canvas)
Portrait of a Child
Signed: Unsigned
Condition: Craquelure, light paint loss, recently cleaned, minimal retouching visible under UV light.

Introduction

This charming portrait of a child, executed in the circle of the French portrait painter Jean-Baptiste Isabey (1767–1855), exudes the refinement and intimate sensitivity of the early 19th century. The work belongs to the tradition of portrait art that flourished in France around 1800 and exemplifies the refined depiction of youthfulness, innocence, and elegance that is so characteristic of Isabey and his followers.

Description of the work

The painting depicts a young child with blushing cheeks and bright blue eyes, shown in a three-quarter profile against a soft blue background. The wavy blonde hair frames the face and emphasizes the youthful appearance. The child is dressed in a blue costume with a richly detailed white collar, where the finesse of the brushwork is clearly visible. The choice of an oval cutout enhances the intimate, miniature-like quality of the work, entirely in line with the tradition of the French portrait miniature.

Technique and color palette

The work is executed in oil paint on maroufle, a technique where canvas is applied to a support to ensure durability and strength. The brushwork is refined, with delicate transitions in the skin tones that create a soft glow. The color palette is dominated by cool blue tones, harmonizing with the warm, golden-blonde hair and soft skin shades. The white collar provides a light accent that draws attention to the face and creates a subtle contrast with the background.

Style and art historical context

Jean-Baptiste Isabey was one of the most celebrated French portrait painters and miniaturists of his time. He worked within the circles of the French court and created portraits of prominent figures, including Empress Joséphine and members of the Napoleonic elite. His style combines refined elegance with intimate realism, making his portraits both aristocratic and personal.

The work presented here closely aligns with this tradition and can be seen as representative of the influence that Isabey had on his contemporaries and students. Within the broader art movement of portraiture around 1800, this work shows similarities with the oeuvre of national style peers such as Pierre-Paul Prud’hon, and internationally with artists like Sir Thomas Lawrence and Friedrich Tischbein, who also captured aristocratic youth and childhood innocence in refined portraits.

Condition

The painting is in stable condition with an even craquelure typical of its age. There is slight paint loss in some areas, but overall it has been recently professionally cleaned, restoring the colors to their original brightness. Under UV light, only minimal retouches are visible, carefully executed without disturbing the original appearance.

Conclusion

This portrait of a child from the circle of Jean-Baptiste Isabey is an attractive example of French portrait art from the early 19th century. With its intimate depiction, refined technique, and subtle color palette, it aligns with the aristocratic tradition in which Isabey excelled. The painting combines historical value with decorative and artistic appeal, making it a special addition for any collector of classical portrait art.

The work 'Portrait of a Child' is set in a gilded gold-bronze frame with plaster ornaments, featuring an oval ochre-colored linen oval mat.

Total dimensions: 35.8x29.5cm
Canvas dimensions: 22.5x16.5

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