Description

An impressive large-scale oil portrait after Édouard Louis Dubufe, depicting the celebrated composition traditionally titled “Before the Ball.”

A beautifully dressed young woman is portrayed in an elegant pale silk evening gown, complemented by long gloves, a pearl necklace and a dark ribbon in her hair. Beside her is a sumptuous arrangement of roses and other flowers, set against a rich, dark interior. The carefully rendered fabrics, jewellery and delicate complexion create a wonderfully refined example of 19th-century society portraiture.

Painted in oil on canvas and presented within a substantial gilt frame with fluted, beaded and foliate decoration. Its commanding size and highly decorative subject make it an exceptional statement piece for a period property, country house, formal living room or collection of portraiture.

This is an original hand-painted work after Dubufe’s composition, not a print and not presented as an autograph work by Dubufe.

Dimensions

Overall framed size:

* 124 × 98 cm

* Approximately 48.8 × 38.6 inches

Canvas size:

* 100 × 75 cm

* Approximately 39.4 × 29.5 inches

Measurements are given height × width.

Condition

The painting has undergone previous restoration and has been relined. A restorer’s label for James O’Dell, Dublin is attached to the reverse and records historic restoration work.

The painted surface displays age-related texture, marks, areas of craquelure and evidence of previous restoration. The substantial gilt frame has rubbing, scratches, cracks, repaired areas, visible fixings and small losses consistent with age and use.

The painting has not been examined under ultraviolet light or removed from its frame. Please inspect all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition report. The frame is included complimentary, and no guarantee can be given regarding its condition. Sold as seen.