Antique Chrystoleagram Lady with fruit Tray Gilt Framed

Description

Victorian Chrystoleagram: Lady with Fruit, Late 19th Century, Hand-Coloured Photographic Image, Gilt & Velvet Frame

This elegant late 19th-century chrystoleagram depicts a refined young lady presenting a tray of fruit, a subject combining portraiture with still-life symbolism in the Victorian taste. The composition evokes themes of abundance, grace, and domestic refinement, rendered with a soft tonal quality characteristic of the chrystoleagram process.

Chrystoleagrams were produced by mounting and hand-finishing photographic images behind glass, often enhanced with subtle colouring to heighten depth and luminosity. Popular in the later Victorian period, they were prized for their painterly appearance and were frequently displayed in elaborate frames as decorative artworks rather than simple photographs.

The image is presented in a deep, richly ornamented gilt frame, further enhanced by a velveteen surround, which adds depth, warmth, and a strong sense of period luxury. The framing is an integral part of the work’s appeal, transforming the image into a striking wall piece suitable for both traditional and eclectic interiors.

This is a highly decorative and atmospheric example of Victorian photographic art, offering both historical interest and enduring visual charm.

 Size: 50 x 44 cm (19.5″ x 17.5″). Frame Thickness: 9 cm (3.5″).

Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used; therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description.  Overseas buyers in some countries may be required to pay any import duties, taxes, or fees. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both UK and international shipping. Overseas buyers, please get in touch for courier charges.

The chrystoleum process was a method of applying colour to an albumen photo, popular from c. 1880 – c. 1910.

An albumen print was pasted face down to the inside of a concave piece of glass. Once the adhesive (usually starch paste or gelatin) was dry, the paper backing of the print was rubbed away, leaving only the transparent emulsion on the glass. The image was then coloured by hand, using oil paints. Another piece of glass was added to the back, and this could also be coloured by hand. Both pieces of glass were bound together, creating a detailed, albeit fragile, image. The process was derived from the 18th-century mezzotint process