Can you shed any light on this portrait?

[rgutsell]

Hiya all

Attached is a full length portrait of a gentleman, probably european, circa 1900's.

I am researching it, and would appreciate any input!

Yours,

R N Gutsell

[silverfox]

Prussian, late 1800s? The number on his cap implies public duty. Tram operator?

[Annette Curtain]

Dodgy right foot, at least a size smaller than the left

The right arm's a bit iffy too

Hope that helps !

Nette

[flocker spotter]

The leggings over the calf suggest outdoor stuff- Would suggest a central European tram / bus/ taxi driver of some kind

[computedshorty]

New York Trafic Warden wearing black arm band in respect for his Boss who had just been assassinated by Al Capone.

[rgutsell]

Hiya all

Well thanks for that, you guys. I have been thinking along similar lines. It may be a street protrait of a tram driver etc. The paper that it is on, comes from Norway.

Any more ideas?

Yours

R N Gutsell

[Salsaboy]

A Norwegian tram driver?

[silverfox]

Could he be a government chauffeur?

See link for picture of young boy dressed as a chauffeur with similar double-breasted uniform

http://www.flickr.com/photos/windryder/6787472551/

[Salsaboy]

How would he reach the pedals?

[the-e-dealer]

He has a pen. Desk sergeant?

[silverfox]

That looks like a cigarette holder to me with some sort of cigar/cheroot. But yes, a desk sergeant is possible

[the-e-dealer]

Similar numbering on San Antonio City Police Badge - Number 211

[computedshorty]

Looks like he just popped out for a smoke to get away from his kids howling, but will have to give back the Safety Pin holding his coat closed, when he goes back in.

[Alex K]

Why not enquire at the textiles / costume section of the V&A

[email protected]

what contacts are available at Norwegian museums of costume and historical dress? Given the age of the portrait, you may want to enquire into Swedish expertise as well -- I've forgot when Norway left Swedish rule, but it wasn't that long ago.

[rgutsell]

Hallo Alex K

Thanks for these ideas. I will try the V and A. I have already been e mailing museums in Sweden and Norway, but either they don't reply or they don't recognise it.

An auctioneer suggested that it may have been done by a street artist.

I will let you know If I get anywhere.

Yours,

R N Gutsell

[Huguenot]

Why are you interested in it?

[rgutsell]

Hallo Huguenot

The portrait is in my posession, I like it, and I am intrigued to know more.

The V and A passed me onto the London Museum and they stated that I would need to cary on doing what I started; ie get in touch with European museums.

Yours,

R N Gutsell