The Tansey Miniatures Foundation

The Tansey Miniatures Foundation

Two Sisters Playing the Piano

Henriette Césarine Flore Davin, née Mirvault

This double portrait of two sisters playing the piano together is as simple as it is impressive. Whereas the older girl is looking at the observer, the younger girl is looking attentively at her sister, waiting for a sign to turn the page. Being a rather common scene amongst the bourgeoisie at the beginning of the 19th century, the peaceful and cheerful moment is captured forever in this miniature. Whom the miniature was meant for or by whom it was requested is uncertain. As it is free of any affectation, it most probably found its use within the family. The simple dresses are drawn accurately and carefully. However, the attention is paid to the faces of the two girls, which are naturally modelled in light entering from the side.
D. O.