Ubekendt mand, kaldet Reverdil 1748 - 1816

W.A. Müller painted this miniature portrait of an unknown man, possibly named Reverdil, using watercolor on ivory, sometime in the late 18th century. At this time, portrait miniatures were fashionable keepsakes amongst the European middle classes and aristocracy. Although we don't know much about the sitter, we can deduce something from his attire and the style of the portrait. His powdered wig, the cut of his jacket, and the delicate brushwork all speak to the influence of French courtly fashion. It's likely that the sitter was a man of some social standing, perhaps a member of the Danish court or a wealthy merchant. The miniature format itself is interesting. Before photography, such portable portraits served as intimate mementos, circulating within private social circles. Art historians often consult sources such as fashion plates, diaries, and inventories to understand the social context of portraiture. These help us to piece together the stories behind the sitters and the artists, revealing the complex interplay between art, identity, and social status.