Framed French Hand-coloured Engraving - La Mode Illustrée - Fashion Magazine -1869

It is the detail of the jewellery, hairstyles, accessories and decor that really makes this antique hand coloured engraving stand out for me though its original focus was the dresses. The artist is either Adèle Anaïs Colin Toudouze (1822-99) or possibly Héloïse Suzanne Colin Leloir (1820-73) and it was produced by the print studio Imprimerie Leroy Paris for La Mode Illustrée, which was one of the leading French fashion magazines of the late 19th century. The magazine was published weekly and each copy came with a beautiful hand-coloured plate displaying the latest clothing from a leading Parisian fashion house. This engraving was produced in 1869 and as a dedicated antique jewellery addict I am particularly fascinated by their jewellery - so much so that I wish they had chosen a different angle for the figure on the left so I could see the necklace she is wearing properly. That said, the composition is beautifully balanced and I especially love the expression on the central figure in her beautiful black mourning ensemble. There is some minor foxing to the engraving and a couple of marks on the mat board that could easily and cheaply be replaced, if desired. It has been fairly recently framed using conservation glass. There are also a couple of minor knocks to the top corners of the frame but they shouldn’t be seen when it is hung. It is a stunning survivor and would be a wonderful addition to an antique lover’s interior. It is a substantial piece - the engraving is approximately 230mm wide x 320mm high and the framed size is 410mm wide x 510mm high.

Delivery is always available in Wellington. It is free in the central, southern and eastern suburbs and a flat fee  of $5 for any number of items for the northern and western suburbs. Please get in touch directly if you have any questions (contact@eldercroftandsons.co.nz).