Striking 1840 Italian oil portrait of Girolamo Luxardo in original gilt frame
Why We Love This … A splendid mid‑19th‑century oil on canvas depicting Girolamo Luxardo, painted around 1840 and presented in its original gilt frame. The sitter’s strong features, expressive gaze, and distinctive sideburns are rendered with great skill, giving the portrait a commanding presence. The artist captures not only likeness but personality - confident, self‑assured, and with a hint of good humour. The refined clothing and detailed jacket further demonstrate the painter’s technical ability and attention to character. A charismatic and engaging portrait with real decorative impact.
At a Glance – Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility
• Date: Circa 1840
• Origin: Italy
• Style: 19th‑century Italian portraiture
• Materials:
• Oil on canvas
• Original gilt frame
• Traditional 19th‑century palette
• Dimensions: H: 77cm (30.3") | W: 70cm (27.6") | D: 6cm (2.4")
• Condition:
• Good antique condition
• Age‑appropriate wear to canvas and frame
• Stable surface
• Rich, warm colours
• Displays beautifully
• Notable Details:
• Strong, characterful depiction of a notable historical figure
• Excellent rendering of clothing and facial detail
• Warm, expressive palette
• Original gilt frame adding presence and authenticity
• Convincing and charismatic sitter
• Decorative Appeal:
• A portrait with real presence and personality
• Versatility:
• Works beautifully in studies, hallways, dining rooms, and eclectic interiors
• Collectibility:
• Portraits of documented historical figures remain highly desirable
• Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase
Heritage, History & Craftsmanship
This portrait dates to around 1840, a period when Italian portraiture was characterised by refined realism, expressive brushwork, and a focus on capturing the inner life of the sitter. The artist demonstrates excellent command of anatomy, light, and textile rendering, particularly in the sitter’s jacket and facial structure. The original gilt frame - substantial and richly detailed - enhances the work’s authenticity and period character.
Social History
Girolamo Luxardo (1784–1865) was an Italian nobleman, diplomat, and entrepreneur. In 1821 he founded the Luxardo distillery in Zara (now Zadar, Croatia), producing fine liqueurs - most famously Maraschino, which remains internationally renowned. His company grew into one of the most respected names in European spirits, and the Luxardo family continues to operate the business today.
This portrait aligns closely with historical descriptions of Luxardo, capturing both his confidence and his approachable, good‑humoured nature. Owning this painting offers a direct connection to one of Italy’s notable entrepreneurial dynasties.
Explore Every Facet
These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase
• Strong, expressive likeness
• Excellent facial modelling
• Detailed period clothing
• Warm, rich palette
• Original gilt frame
• Stable canvas with age‑appropriate wear
Terminology by Style
19th‑Century Italian Portraiture: A tradition emphasising realism, expressive character study, and refined handling of light and textile detail, often commissioned by noble or entrepreneurial families.
Sustainable Style & Styling Suggestions
Thank you for considering this antique portrait - a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible … in every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures.
• Hang in a study or library for gravitas
• Pair with dark woods, leather, or brass for a classical interior
• Combine with contemporary pieces for a striking contrast
Purchase with Confidence
White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship, and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Every item is described and photographed with care, offering complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.
We are an established and trusted resource for both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the stories behind each piece, and appreciate these timeless furnishings in person.
Delivery & Collection Information
• Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase
• Collection welcome from our Sussex showroom
• Local delivery available
• Nationwide couriers arranged on request
measurements
Height:
77 cm
Width:
70 cm
Depth:
6 cm
measurements
declaration
White’s Antiques has clarified that the Antique Oil Portrait of Girolamo Luxardo - Italian Nobleman c.1840 (LA571542) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being circa 1840