Portrait of a Young Child (possibly 'The Strawberry Blonde')
Drawing / Pastel Portrait on Paper • Connie King
Style & Movement
Contemporary Realism / Commercial Portraiture
Medium & Technique
Pastel, conté crayon, and charcoal on textured paper or illustration board. The technique involves soft blended tones for skin and expressive, gestural white chalk highlights for the hair and shirt contours.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970s–1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format; approximately 11 x 14 inches (sight size), excluding the large ornate frame.
Subject Description
A close-up portrait of a young child with reddish-blonde hair (strawberry blonde) looking slightly upward and to the left. The composition is focused on the head and neck, with the torso lightly sketched in white chalk. The expression is one of innocent contemplation.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The pastel pigments appear vibrant with minimal smudging under glass.
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $500 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $350 USD
Provenance History
Likely a private commission or a specialized gallery purchase; the ornate frame suggests it was a cherished family heirloom. No visible gallery labels are present in the provided image.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of late 20th-century American portraiture. While not part of a major historical movement, it demonstrates high technical skill in direct-from-life or photo-based pastel rendering, a popular medium for capturing childhood innocence during this era.
Notable Features
Features a prominent and stylized cursive signature 'Connie King' in the lower right corner. The piece is housed in a highly decorative, Rococo-revival style carved wood or composite frame with floral motifs.
Condition Issues
Minor age-related yellowing of the paper support; slight dust accumulation inside the frame; reflections suggest the glass is non-UV treated.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is mounted with acid-free materials and a spacer to prevent the pastel from touching the glass. Replace current glass with Museum Glass or UV-protective glazing to prevent pigment fading.