18C AUSTRIAN MINIATURE PAINTING DUCHESS MARIA MAGDALENA

This listing is for a early 18th century circa 1730 or so miniature portrait of Archduchess Maria Magdalena of Austria (1689–1743).  The painting measures 4 x 3 3/8" or 10 x 8 cm.  It is in it's original brass frame with a hinged tin back and beveled glass front.  This frame measures 5 x 4" or 12 x 10 cm.

The painting shows the Archduchess in a very simple and modest black dress.  Her only adornment, white ruffles at her throat and wrist.  In the background the light of God shines upon her through the clouds.  She holds a book in her right hand, probably the Bible.  she was the daughter of Leopold I and was a very religious person.  She never married and led a life of contemplative seclusion, she died in 1743 without issue. 

The frame is also 18th century and is original to the painting.  It has simple engraved work of flowers.  The back hinged tin cover is very interesting.  It is also original to the painting and is stamped "IHS".  ("IN HOC SANCTIS", which means "in this sacred place", or, in English, "In His Service", or " I Have Suffered") All of this appropriate for this religious person. 

Found inside the frame is a note I believe in Old German script, please see photographs and perhaps you can translate this. 

Both the painting and the frame are in excellent condition.  A rare opportunity to buy an original painting of Austrian Royalty.  Please note you are bidding on an early 18th century painting this is not any kind of reproduction. 

There is no reserve.  Please see my other auctions for other interesting antiques. 

I will gladly combine if you win more than one of these plates.  Shipping anywhere in the US via UPS Ground with full insurance is $10.00.  To Canada with USPS Express Mail with full insurance is $25.00. International shipping will cost $35.00 by USPS Express Mail with full insurance.