Antique miniature portraits of the Tormey-Holder Collection

 

 


English: Artist Unknown

 

 

Georgian Era mourning miniature, rich with symbolism, including a skull and crossbones, reminiscent of older memento mori pieces


Georgian Era Mourning Miniature,
Rich with Symbolism, Including a Skull and Crossbones,
Reminiscent of Older Memento Mori Pieces

circa 1780-1790
Artist unknown

1 11/16 x 2 1/16 inches (sight)

watercolor on ivory; housed in a gold pendant frame with hair work and a seed pearl bow to the reverse


Though not yet attributable to a specific artist, this miniature is a superb specimen of eighteenth century mourning art and is an important holding within the collection. Depicted is a skull and bones atop a casket that has been placed upon a tomb. Brown hair (presumably the hair of the decedent) is affixed to the front and sides of the tomb; and a tiny curl of blond hair also appears to the front. Two family crests adorn the front of the casket; and in the background are cypress trees (symbolic of hope, pointing toward heaven) and a weeping willow (representing tears and sadness).

 

Attribution Advice Welcomed: Do you recognize aspects of this miniature portrait that you believe should be attributed to a specific artist that we have failed to consider? If so, we welcome your thoughts and suggestions and invite you to contact us.

 

 

 

 

 


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