An exceptionally charming Portuguese devotional frame featuring a black-and-white print inscribed “Santa Miquelina Viuva” — Saint Miquelina, Widow.
The religious image is mounted within a beautifully shaped textile surround, richly decorated with metallic-thread embroidery, sequins, reflective floral ornaments and delicate applied details in silver, gold, green and deep pink. Embroidered branches and foliage encircle the print, while symmetrical scrolling motifs embellish the lower section.
Created for private devotion, pieces of this nature were traditionally displayed in domestic interiors, private chapels or religious spaces. The softly faded fabric, intricate handwork and gentle signs of age give this frame a distinctive historic character.
Based on its materials, decorative style and construction, it is believed to date from the late eighteenth or early nineteenth century, approximately 1770–1830.
The piece comes from the contents of an old Portuguese manor house.
Condition
Good antique condition considering its considerable age. The fabric displays age-related discolouration, spotting and wear. Some embroidered and applied decorative elements have become displaced, detached or lost. The hanging cord also shows wear. These imperfections are visible in the photographs and form part of the frame’s authentic antique character.
Materials: Printed paper, fabric, metallic thread, sequins and applied metal ornaments
Dimensions: 13 cm high × 9.5 cm wide × 1 cm deep
Weight: 0.20 kg
Estimated date: Circa 1770–1830
Origin: Portugal
