Large 19th-Century French Engraving La Vraie Mère in a Giltwood Frame - 25½" x 31"

A large 19th-century engraving titled La Vraie Mère (“The Real Mother”), engraved by Paul Girardet after a composition by Constant Joseph Brochart (1816–1899), and published by Goupil & Cie. This poignant scene presents a moment of reunion: the young woman, given away at an early age, returns to her biological mother. Dressed in refined attire and accompanied by a servant, she stands in quiet contrast to her modestly dressed mother and barefoot brother, simple and timeworn surroundings further underscoring the family’s modest condition. The attitudes and expressions of the figures evoke the emotion of a first meeting after years of separation, marked by both tenderness and restraint. The composition is rich in narrative detail, with expressive gestures and faces conveying a restrained yet powerful emotional intensity.

Constant Joseph Brochart (1816–1899) was a French painter best known for his refined portraits of young women and children, characterized by a delicate and idealized finish. Alongside this work, he also produced occasional tender domestic narrative compositions, reflecting the period’s interest in emotional storytelling.

Presented underglass in a simple gilt frame, likely original, with a softly worn surface and minor losses consistent with age. The paper shows light age toning and scattered foxing, in keeping with its period. A small label remains in the lower left corner; this is likely an old inventory or framing label that forms part of the object’s history, though it could be easily removed if preferred.

Note: We also offer for sale the pendant work, La Fille adoptive (“The Adopted Daughter"), which depicts the earlier moment of parting. Together, the two engravings form a compelling narrative pair and would hang beautifully above bedside tables to frame a bed, or in a romantic sitting room.