Antique 19th century French Limoges miniature portrait, kiln-fired enamel on copper plaque, housed in an Empire style gilt bronze ormolu frame. A charming miniature enameled work inspired after the 1898 painting "Les Disciples" by Eugène Burnand. "The Disciples" depicts Saints Peter and John running to the sepulchre on the morning of the Resurrection. Beautifully rendered with exquisite detailing, here depicted in flesh tones and yellow and green atop a dark red/brown background embellished with gold gilt accents. The enamel work is done on a convex copper plaque, which is then kiln fired. It takes a very special skill to produce such quality work, as the enamel is first applied as a powder which then melts and hardens to a glassy sheen. Quite difficult to work with and to convey imagery such as this fine portrait of is not an easy task. Such work illustrates the level of craftsmanship and superb quality that resides in this piece offered here. It is evident that the artist was quite proud of this miniature masterpiece, for the enamelist signed the work with his or her initials of PR or RP in gold gilt. Followed by d'après E. Burnand. The enameled portrait is housed in a gilt bronze frame. Decorated with finely casted ribbon bow finial, with intricate patterned friezes along the borders. The back with hinged easel and loop ring for hanging. A beautiful piece and in very good antique condition with general wear to the frame, the fabric mat surrounding the enamel plaque showing age related wear. Frame measures 10 5/8" height x 8 7/8" length, Portrait measures (sight) 5 3/4" diameter.