In 1884, Princess Isabel and the Count d'Eu wrote a dedication on a large portrait.
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Period portrait of Princess Isabel , the Count d'Eu, and two of their three sons. Dedication in Portuguese by the Count d'Eu, signed by both, for Leonidia Vieira Braga Ribas.
- Brazil, 1884 or 1885.
- 20 cm x 27 cm.
- Excellent condition Regarding conservation, there is a slight mark from an old frame on the edge (5 mm), which does not detract from the dedication or the photograph.
- Unique piece.
Donna Leonidia Vieira Braga Ribas
A very affectionate memory.
Gaston of Orleans & Count of Eu
Isabel, Countess of Eu
After returning from Europe in December 1881, the imperial couple focused on the education of their children until November 1884, when they undertook a visit to the Southern Provinces, returning to the Court in March 1885. It was during this time that this portrait of Princess Isabel , the Count d'Eu, and their three sons—Pedro de Alcântara, Prince of Grão-Pará, Luís Maria Felipe of Brazil, and Antônio Gastão—was taken.
Everything about this portrait is elegant, delicate, and interesting.
First, it is a large-format portrait, 27cm x 20cm, in excellent condition, taken by Alberto Henschel, who was often called upon to photograph the royal family. He was one of the most important photographers – and pioneers of photography in Brazil – who worked in the country in the second half of the 19th century.
Secondly, Princess Isabel 's attitude towards her children, especially Antônio Gastão, the youngest, is noteworthy. One can sense the Princess's profound maternal love, which contrasts sharply with the Prince's military reserve.
Finally, even without knowing who the recipient was, the handwriting of the dedication and the two signatures, of the Prince and the Princess, are perfect. Dedications and letters from the couple were more frequent when they were in exile in France, but autograph documents from them before 1889 are much rarer, sought after, and therefore valuable.
