19th century French Portrait

19th Century French Portrait Drawing | 1887

An exceptionally romantic 19th-century French drawing depicting an elegant young woman dressed in an intricately detailed floral gown, standing gracefully within a softly rendered garden landscape.

The delicate dusty-rose flowers, flowing fabric, and intricate detailing capture the beauty and femininity of 19th-century French portraiture.

What makes this piece particularly special is the handwritten inscription in the lower-right corner, dated 1887, which appears to dedicate the work to Madame A. Darcel and reads, in part, “Homage de Q. Mazerolle.”

The inscription raises an intriguing possible connection to Alexis-Joseph Mazerolle (1826–1889), a celebrated French academic painter and decorative artist known for his elegant figurative compositions and commissions for prominent Parisian interiors, including the Palais Garnier opera house. While this attribution remains unconfirmed, the inscription offers a fascinating connection to the artistic world of 19th-century France.

The French phrase “Hommage de” translates approximately to “a tribute from,” suggesting the drawing may have been presented as a personal dedication or gift.

Beautifully housed in an ornate gilt frame with deep navy-blue matting and delicate gold detailing, this substantial piece brings old-world romance and historical character to a modern interior.

Artwork Details

* Origin: French School
* Period: 19th century, dated 1887
* Medium: Drawing on paper with color
* Inscription: “A. Madame. A. Darcel, Homage De Q Mazerolle, 1887”
* Artist: Signed or inscribed; possible Mazerolle connection, unverified
* Artwork/matting opening: 17” × 12”
* Framed dimensions: 28” × 23”
* Frame: Ornate gilt frame with navy-blue matting