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" Every day we should hear at least one good song , read one good poem , see one exquisite picture , and , if possible , speak a few sensible words . " Johann Wolfgang von Goethe "

Sunday, 30 December 2012

' A Portrait Miniature of a young Lady , wearing blue bodice with gauze scarf, her powdered hair adorned with silk ribbon ' Louis-Marie Sicardi. (French 1746-1825) Watercolour on ivory . Oval 2in (49mm) high . Private collection.

sicardi-lady-box-high-res Louis-Marie Sicardi began his career in Bordeaux, where he became a member of the Academy , moving to Paris in 1773. In Paris he became the court painter , working largely for Marie Antoinette , producing portrait miniatures to be presented as diplomatic gifts . This portrait dates to the 1780's , when Sicardi's patron's demanded miniatures that could be set into boxes or jewelery. During the Revolution and under the Empire Sicardi retained his exclusive clientele whilst not obtaining commissions directly from the court. Although he rarely signed , his work is extremely distinctive and a consistent high quality.

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