Unsigned 19th Century Watercolor Portrait of a Boy

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I think of all the media used for Academic Nude studies, watercolor has to be the rarest. You just do not see nude watercolors come up for sale every day of the week. This sweet little portrait popped up on a European Auction site today but unfortunately the artist did not bother to sign nor date it. Of all the media in art, I think watercolor requires the most talent and physical control of the media. Watercolor just does not reward sloppiness. It will very quickly become apparent as to whether, as in the case of farming, you are a success or failure. I am sure because of age the colors in this little portrait have faded over time but the composition and execution is still admirable.

Addendum: 07-18 .. Although I placed several bids on the Berlin sellers auctions (posting below this one) I only managed to buy this little portrait. He will be heading into my collection shortly.

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