Catherine I, Empress of Russia (1684-1727) c.1717
Enamel | 5.7 x 4.8 cm (sight) | RCIN 421596
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Catherine, Empress of Russia is shown in this signed enamel by Charles Boit, the leading European enamellist of the first quarter of the eighteenth century. The enamel is based on a portrait painted by Jean-Marc Nattier in 1717 (the Hermitage, St Petersburg) and must have been copied on the orders of Peter the Great during his visit to Paris in that year. Boit enjoyed a successful reputation having worked as Court Enamellist in England from 1696 until 1714 and then found favour at the French court with patrons such as Philippe, duc d'Orléans (1674-1723). The Empress is shown her wearing an embroidered gold dress, an ermine-lined crimson robe and the red sash of the Order of St Anne.
Catherine I, Empress of Russia, married Peter the Great in 1711. She was crowned as Empress-Consort in 1724 and succeeded as Empress on Peter's death in 1725.
Signed on the right: C. Boit (the 'CB' in monogram).Provenance
Formerly in the collection of the Margravine of Ansbach. Featured in the Margravine of Ansbach's sale at Brandenburg House, Hammersmith, Phillips, 27-29 July 1818, lot 71.
Acquired for George IV (when Prince Regent) from Rundell, Bridge and Rundell in August 1818. -
Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Enamel
Measurements
5.7 x 4.8 cm (sight)
6.4 x 5.4 cm (frame, external)
Other number(s)