Pair of 19th C Miniature Portraits with Provenance

​A pair of mid 19th century portrait miniatures depicting Charles Frederick Robinson (1796–1865) and his wife Eleanor Robinson (née Rocke) (1798–1865). These portraits are executed with great finesse in a combination of ink, pencil, and watercolour, a style that bridged the gap between traditional fine art and the early photographic era. ​The subjects were a prominent couple of the early Victorian period, and their legacy was preserved by their son, the distinguished Revd. Charles John Robinson (1833–1898). ​Charles Frederick Robinson: Represented as a dignified gentleman in formal attire, holding an eyeglass. ​Eleanor Robinson: The daughter of John Helyar Rocke of Wells, Somerset. She is depicted in a traditional lace indoor cap and a dark mourning or formal dress. ​These miniatures have been passed down through generations of the Robinson family. Handwritten labels on the reverse trace their journey from the Revd. C.J. Robinson (famed genealogist and author of A History of the Mansions and Manors of Herefordshire) to his daughter, Miss E.M.M. Robinson, and finally as a gift in 1957 to Thomas Dawtrey Baxendale. ​Medium: Finely detailed ink-and-pencil sketching with soft watercolour washes to the face and clothing. The technique highlights the artist’s skill in capturing character through subtle shading. ​Both portraits are housed in their original mid Victorian ebonised square frames. Each features a circular aperture and distinctive gold leaf lettering identifying the sitters. The reverse of each frame retains its original backing and historical provenance labels, adding significant value for collectors of genealogy and British social history. ​The paper shows characteristic "foxing" (age-related spotting) and light toning consistent with pieces of this age (approx. 160–170 years old). With visible dusting between the glass and paper. ​Frames: Ebonised finish remains deep and rich. There is minor wear to the edges and light ageing to the gold-leaf lettering, which only enhances their antique character. ​Glass: Intact and clear. ​Dimensions (Approximate) ​Frame: 17.5cm by 15cm Aperture (Circular): 10.5cm by 8.5cm ♻️ we care about our little planet and use recycled boxes ♻️