*Reserved for Susan* Portrait Relief of Monseigneur de Forbin-Janson, Bishop of Nancy, c.1820–1850, Mounted on Mahogany Plaque

A finely modeled portrait relief depicting Monseigneur Charles-Auguste-Marie-Joseph de Forbin-Janson (1785–1844), Bishop of Nancy and founder of L’Œuvre de la Sainte Enfance. The profile is rendered in delicate white relief—likely plaster or wax—beneath original convex glass and framed within a brass bezel.

The portrait follows the Neoclassical tradition of early 19th-century medallions, characterized by a restrained profile bust and dignified simplicity. It was likely created during or shortly after Forbin-Janson’s lifetime, later preserved on a hand-turned mahogany plaque with concave recess for display, a framing method popular in late 19th-century France.

The back retains its original French paper label, identifying the sitter and his years of birth and death (1785–1844). The typography and paper aging correspond to the late 19th century, suggesting this was part of a small commemorative series honoring French clergy and scholars.

A beautiful and historically significant piece of devotional art linking faith, portraiture, and French ecclesiastical history.

Origin: France
Medium: Plaster or wax relief under glass, mounted on mahogany plaque
Dimensions: 6.25” H × 4.5” W
Date: Portrait c.1820–1850; plaque c.1880–1900

Condition:

Excellent presentation overall with light surface wear to the mahogany and minor age-related craquelure visible beneath glass, as well as dust. Original French identification label remains on reverse with stable but fragile paper. Glass and brass bezel intact.