Charming Antique 18ct Gold Swiss Enamel by Juliette Hebert - Henry Capt Miniature Portrait Pendant. Signed on the front Juliette Hebert and also signed on the reverse Henry Capt/Geneve. Approximate age 1870. Good condition except a small chip on rim near base (almost completely covered by mount) Reverse has firing flaws in counter enamel at the top. Weight 5 Grams. L4cm W2.5cm. This delightful portrait is of a dark-eyed lady, her hair is braided in a coil and she is wearing a blue dress with a white lace jabot and gold jewellery. The miniature is mounted in a scalloped 18ct gold frame and a hanging loop.

The Hebert family of enamelists were originally from Geneva. Nicholas Didier Hebert (1754-1820) worked successfully as an enamel painter in Paris from 1806 but died in 1820, having trained a son, Pierre Hebert (1783-1867) as an enamelist. No sons of Pierre Hebert are recorded. Daughter Juliette Hebert (b. 1837) worked as an enamelist in Geneva, winning a bronze medal in 1889 at the Exposition Universelle.

Although Henry Capt is not recorded as an enamel painter in Geneva at this date, it is probable that he is related to the celebrated Henry-Daniel Capt (born 1773) who produced watches and automata in Geneva in the early 19th century.

Comes complete with Brown and Gold Leather Box L5.5cm W5.5cm and Sothebys Valuation Certificate dated 12.8.2000.