Victorian Couple - Apparently Painted over Photographic Underlay

Two rather striking and certainly intriguing painted portraits. The sitters command our attention. Who were they and how did they fit into society? Nameless for now but how they have been presented reveals more than a mere name. The patriarchal gaze of the gentleman and the idealised thoughtfulness of the woman in a slightly smaller work point immediately to the mid to late Victorian era when increased wealth linked to industrialisation created an extraordinary source of patronage for portraiture. The high neckline, the embroidered fabrics, the large brooch, the silk neck tie and the glint of a golden watch chain signal a certain social standing within the new middle class. The complementary colour palettes and vernacular style boards point to one artist and surely the sitters a man and a wife? Skilfully painted, seemingly over a photographic image. Tape marks to the rear reveal the probability that the works have been removed from their original frames at some point. In very pleasing condition. The mystery of the models’ identities adds an alluring layer of interest.

SIZES: 20.5 cm x 26 cm and 19 cm x 24 cm to highest point.