All Wrapped Up

During the nineteenth century there was a strong tradition in Europe for portrait painting on porcelain of which this is a fine example. Unlike miniatures painted on ivory, these portraits do not fade so the colours remain fresh and bright. This portrait was painted in 1840 by Jacob Spelter and shows a young lady with her hair looped over her ears wearing a white dress accessorised with gold and ruby jewellery.

Born in Germany, Jacob (also known as Joseph) Spelter worked in Karlsruhe between 1820 and 1856. He learned his trade from Johann Martin Morgenroth and went on to attract a distinguished clientele. His portraits on porcelain are critically well acclaimed for their expressiveness and pleasant colours. Examples of his work can be found in numerous European galleries and collections.

Painted on porcelain and signed bottom right J Spelter, 1840, the portrait is housed within a leather wallet designed to be secreted in a gentleman’s pocket. The portrait is in fine condition; the case has an attractive patina associated with its use.