Antique Belgian Flemish Oil Painting Portrait of Polydoor Lippens

Antique Belgian Flemish oil painting portrait of Polydoor Lippens (1 of 2). Belgian (Flemish), circa 1840-60. Unsigned, artist unknown. Depicts Polydoor Lippens (spelt Polydore (incorrectly)on reverse of painting) (see provenance - ie name written on frame). "Polydoor Lippens (1810-1889) was born on March 16, 1810 in Eeklo, Belgium. He graduated as an engineer after studying in Brussels and Paris. In 1850 he invented the vibrating mechanism for the electric bell, the vibrator. The patent for this was challenged by several other inventors, but eventually, it was awarded to Lippens in Paris in 1858. As an engineer he invented the electric bell and also the electric motor for miniature trains. He improved the telegraphy at the railway and was tutor in physics for the children of King Leopold I." The second portrait in the pair is of Adelaide Lippens (1812-1866) who was the sister of Polydoor Lippens, another sister being Pauline. Oil on canvas. Wooden frame. Size of frame: 14.75 x 13.5 inches. Size of canvas: 8.5 x 7.5 inches. Weight: 1.8 kg (allow 3.5 kg volumetric weight once packed).