Miniature Portrait Painting Mary Queen Of Scots English School 1860's ANTIQUE
For centuries Mary, Queen of Scots (1542-1587), one of Scotland's most famous historic figures, has always held an enduring presence in popular culture. Her enigma continues to keep academics and historians busy. The romance and tragedy of her life inspired poets and writers like Robbie Burns and Sir Walter Scott, as well the Hollywood scriptwriters of our day. It is said that Mary's inner and outer beauty was admired by all, even her enemies. This influenced countless artists to use their talents to immortalise Mary Queen of Scots in their art. Hence over the last four hundred years many beautiful paintings appeared of this Scottish queen of the late Tudor period.
This treasure, a lovely miniature painting of Mary Queen of Scots, is one such example. Competently painted in oils on a metal plate. Unfortunately we do not know who the artist is as the painting is not signed. The sitter is shown bust length and wears a white lace headdress, neck ruff and ornate dress. In the background are the two turrets of a castle visible. Painted around the 1860's, this miniature painting is framed in a gilded gesso frame of the same period.
The painting is in an excellent condition, with no damage. The frame itself is stable and strong. We like how this regal looking frame shows its age though and considering everything we decided against restoration. There are a few surface partings in the gesso across the oval rings and one or two small parts of the outer edge are no longer there. A metal ring is fitted so it can be hung on the wall straightaway. This lovely item is now ready for its new home!
