French school; c. 1780.

French school; c. 1780.
"Landscape."
Oil on copper.
Presents faults.
Measurements. 8 x 8 cm; 14 x 14 cm (frame).
In the 18th century, miniature paintings were considered luxury objects, intended for interior ornamentation or as collector's items. While portraits were the most common subject matter in miniatures, the landscape genre also gained prominence, especially in the context of the emerging Romantic sensibility and taste for the picturesque.
The miniature landscape allowed the viewer to enjoy idealized natural scenes, evoking tranquility and beauty in intimate spaces. This type of work was often inspired by the Dutch and Flemish landscape tradition of the 17th century, with scenes that not only captured nature, but also conveyed moods through the use of color and light. The small format required great precision and technical mastery, making these pieces true artistic achievements.
Moreover, in a world where the Grand Tour became popular among the European aristocracy, these landscapes could serve as reminders of places visited or as ideal images of a pastoral and orderly world. The miniature, because of its portability, also offered a personal and contemplative experience, bringing the viewer closer to nature, even in urban or remote contexts.