ANTIQUE ORIGINAL INK AND WASH ON CARDBOARD PAINTING DEPICTING A FEMALE SITTER, 19TH CENTURY An unusual and skilful portrait in monochrome ink and wash, depicting a woman in fine dress of the period under the shadow of her wide-brimmed hat, her eyes show plenty of feeling, and it appears to be by a hand who knows portraiture. A quick, confident sketch, probably taken from life, possibly a preparatory piece for a later oil painting or perhaps just a quick portrait in the moment. Painted in what appears to be ink and wash on cardboard, the artist has worked the medium into the surface of the cardboard to great effect. Dating from the later part of the 19th century, circa 1880 in date. The work has been inscribed to the lower right ‘C. Hermans’. It would make sense that this could potentially be Charles Hermans (1839-1924), a well-known painter of portraits; the date fits, and the work does seem to be by a very capable hand. We have also found other examples of works on cardboard by the artist. The painting is in good vintage condition with some minor wear commensurate with age. Overall measurements: 36cm x 27cm x 0.3cm.