Suite of four painted silhouette portraits, France, late 18th – early 19th century

A rare ensemble of four profile portraits, painted in black gouache with highlights, on blue-green tinted paper, presented under glass. Two men and two women are depicted, their coiffures and costumes characteristic of the fashion of the late eighteenth century and the Directoire period. More precious than simple cut silhouettes, these painted effigies render with finesse the details of the faces, hair and fabrics. Each portrait is presented within a brown fillet and united in a single mount. The ensemble is preserved in a giltwood frame adorned with carved friezes and palmettes. Good overall condition. Wear and patina of time.