19th-Century German School

Portrait Of A Lady With An Open Letter

19th-Century German School

Portrait Of A Lady With An Open Letter

This rather exquisite mid-19th-century drawing depicts a lady wearing a bell-shaped dress and holding an open letter. It’s an alluring piece that’s yet to reveal its mystery.

Enigmatic works create magnificent stories, if only in the mind of the viewer. Poised seated, she looks back with a knowing expression, gently holding the letter between her thumb and index finger. She’s married, wearing a ring on her right hand, as is often the case in Germany. Surely, with that expression, it’s a letter from her husband?

Did you know: In the 1850s, the production of sewing machines, including by Issac Singer, had a profound impact on fashion.

Letters, along with books, were also included in portraits to signify the sitter’s literacy - but this feels personal. She’s connected to its contents.

Held in a contemporary glazed frame.

Medium: Pencil on paper
Overall size: 16½” x 19½” / 42cm x 49cm
Year of creation: c. 1850
Condition: Artwork presents well.

Conservation & History

We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.

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