Premier Summer Sale | June 25, 2025
Wed, Jun 25, 2025 10:00AM EDT
Lot 111
Follower or Circle of Jacques Louis David, Portrait of a Belgian Diplomat
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for
$1,000
Sold Price excludes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $25 |
| $100 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $200 |
| $3,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
(French, 1748-1825)
Gentleman in black coat with embroidered collar, with order medals, unsigned, oil on canvas, 25-1/2 x 21-1/4 in.; possibly original Empire gilt wood and composition frame, 32 x 26-7/8 x 3-1/8 in.
Provenance: Private Collection, Atlanta, Georgia; Brunk Auctions, September 21, 2013, lot 269; Virginia Private Collection
Note: The portrait likely depicts a young diplomat in 1820s Belgium, based on the sitter's attire, the canvas' age, and the painting style. Influences of Neoclassical master Jacques-Louis David, then exiled in Brussels, are evident in the precise, polished technique. David’s presence in Belgium attracted wealthy patrons and inspired local artists, one of whom may have created this work. Diplomatic uniforms, introduced in France and adopted across Europe, were ornate, symbolizing rank through elaborate embroidery. These uniforms, common among noble diplomats, featured tailcoats, breeches, bicorne hats, and swords, and were eventually phased out in the 20th century. David died in exile after a carriage accident. Denied burial in France for his revolutionary ties, he was interred in Brussels, though his heart was later buried in Paris. The sitter’s identity remains unknown, though his intense gaze and resemblance to a modern political figure continue to intrigue.
Available payment options
Purchased items will be available for pick up or shipping from our Asheville, North Carolina auction facility within ten business days of the auction, or will be assessed a storage fee of $5.00 per day, per item. Purchaser agrees that packing and shipping is done at the purchaser's risk and that the purchaser will pay in advance all packing expenses, materials, carrier fees and insurance charges. At our discretion, items will either be packed by an agent such as a packaging store or Brunk Auctions. Please allow two weeks for shipping after payment is received. Shipment of large items is the responsibility of the purchaser. We are happy to provide names of carriers and shippers if a purchaser so requests. Brunk Auctions will have no liability for any loss or damage to shipped items.
Private Collection, Atlanta, Georgia; Brunk Auctions, September 21, 2013, lot 269; Virginia Private Collection
lined with paste and linen, restretched on old stretcher with some auction numbers, scattered light retouch, craquelure, abrasions at edges; frame with some conservation Note - Brunk Auctions makes every effort to offer accurate and thorough information, but encourages prospective bidders to inspect items in person whenever possible. Condition statements are provided as a courtesy for general guidance and should not be considered complete or definitive. They do not represent a warranty or assumption of liability by Brunk Auctions. Certain condition issues may not be specifically noted in the report but may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which are considered part of the overall condition report. Please refer to our Terms of Sale for complete information and contact us for additional photos or information as needed.
