Miniatures from the 19th Century
Exhibition: Bomann-Museum, Celle, from October 2002 to March 2004.
The Empire and Biedermeier periods are among the most splendid epochs of miniature painting. The Tansey Miniatures Foundation provided the first comprehensive insight into this previously little-known period, with 135 works from its collection.
Poster for the exhibition
Miniature painting achieved its greatest technical perfection in the 19th century. More and more artists specialised in this type of portrait and refined their production techniques. Almost without exception they painted on thin sheets of ivory that were excellent supports for painting faces and hands. What appeals to today’s observers about miniatures of the 19th century is the direct impact of the sitters.
The creation of an imaginary world, as was often desired in the 18th century, gave way to an increasingly “realistic” pictorial language – if often a theatrical one. The comprehensive catalogue presents all the works in detail with additional essays dedicated to the outstanding miniaturists Augustin and Isabey, along with the miniature painters of Daffinger’s circle in Vienna.
Period 19th Century read more....
Catalogue 19th Century read more....