Austrian School, 17th/18th Century Portrait of a Young Prince

Description:

Austrian School, 17th/18th Century

Portrait of a Young Prince
Unsigned.
Oil on canvas, 31 x 25 1/8 in. (78.8 x 63.8 cm),on an oval stretcher, unframed.
Condition: Lined, retouch, craquelure, surface grime.

N.B. Family tradition holds that this portrait purportedly shows the Archduke Joseph of Austria during his reign as King of Hungary (1687-90). The figure wears Hungarian dress, the chivalric Order of the Golden Fleece, and behind the figure is a idealized representation of the Crown of Saint Stephen. Copies of the family's research correspondence accompany the lot.

Estimate $800-1,200

Lining is quite old, and there is weakening and wear to the edges of the fabric support where it is affixed to the oval stretcher. The glossy varnish layer presents a milky surface under UV, making it difficult to discern the extent of prior restoration or of any overcleaning. None of the retouch seems recent. There is an area of retouch to the outer corner of the sitter's proper left eye measuring about 1/2 inch. Craquelure overall appears stable. There appears to be an old repair to the background in the u.r. quadrant. Some frame abrasion and losses around perimeter.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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