Wigs on the Green has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
Some years ago a salvaged scrapbook came to light in a Parisian bookshop and this is the source of this unique cutting.
The silhouette is presented in a period bird's eye maple veneer frame with a gilt slip (small areas of loss to the veneer). There is a stamp of authenticity on the inside and to the backing paper.
Finding himself exiled in England with a wife and young family to support, Augustin Edouart opened a shop in Cheltenham selling French curios and artificial flowers but the venture was short-lived. He had also tried his hand at creating hair pictures of animals and landscapes. These found favour with HRH Duchess of York who commissioned portraits of her beloved dogs but the work was time-consuming and so not cost-effective. But all was not lost, as Edouart discovered he had an aptitude for cutting silhouettes and, third time lucky, this venture proved hugely successful. He spent 15 years travelling around the British Isles cutting thousands of profiles including many authors, musicians, politicians and royalty before setting sail to the United States where again he found favour and success.
Framed Size: 200 x 184mm
Provenance: The Artist's Scrapbook
Wigs on the Green has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
Small portraiture of character & historical interest
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Wigs on the Green Profile Page
Augustin Edouart Cut Silhouette of a Spaniel
