Signed Wagner Portrait Miniature of Napoleon Bonaparte on Porcelain | Continental School, Late 19th Century
Signed Wagner Portrait Miniature of Napoleon Bonaparte on Porcelain | Continental School, Late 19th Century
Description
A beautifully hand-painted late 19th-century porcelain portrait miniature depicting Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, signed “Wagner” at the lower right and presented in its original gilt-metal easel frame adorned with an elegant ribbon-and-bow crest.
Rendered in exquisite detail, Napoleon is portrayed in the distinctive green uniform of the Chasseurs à Cheval of the Imperial Guard, wearing his imperial decorations against a dark background that accentuates the luminous quality of the porcelain. The refined brushwork, subtle facial modeling, and rich color palette exemplify the enduring appeal of Continental porcelain portrait miniatures produced during the late nineteenth century.
Research has identified documented auction comparables of Wagner-signed Napoleon portrait miniatures, placing this work within a recognized group of Continental porcelain paintings celebrating the Napoleonic era. The original gilt easel frame further enhances its period charm, making it an exceptional display piece for collectors of Napoleonica, military history, and fine European decorative arts.
The reverse bears an old handwritten inventory number and displays age-related firing and condition characteristics consistent with antique porcelain. The plaque also exhibits historic stabilized fracture lines visible from the reverse, while the painted face presents beautifully for display
Whether displayed in a cabinet, library, or study, this elegant portrait offers a sophisticated glimpse into the nineteenth century’s enduring fascination with one of history’s most iconic figures.
Details
- Subject: Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte
- Artist: Signed “Wagner”
- Origin: Continental (likely German)
- Date: Circa 1880–1900
- Medium: Hand-painted porcelain plaque
- Frame: Original gilt-metal ribbon-crested easel frame
- Condition: Antique condition with age-appropriate wear. Historic stabilized fracture lines are visible on the reverse of the porcelain plaque and are reflected in the price. Please review all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
A distinguished and highly decorative antique portrait miniature, perfect for collectors of Napoleonica, European porcelain, military history, and nineteenth-century portraiture.
Binding Purchase & Condition Notice:
This item is antique/vintage and sold as-is. Age-related wear, restoration, and imperfections are expected and form part of its character.
All descriptions and attributions are opinions and may differ among experts. Any appraisal or valuation references are provided for context only and are not guarantees of value.
By purchasing, you confirm that you have reviewed all images and information and are making an independent buying decision.
All sales are final. This transaction is binding, and you agree not to dispute the purchase or initiate a chargeback based on condition, attribution, or valuation.
Note: Please read our Policies located on the left bottom portion of our websites footer prior to purchase. Purchasing is an acknowledgment of our policies.