'Virgin with Child' (circa Late 18th / Early 19th Century)
0790
'Virgin with Child', oil on canvas, (circa Late 18th / Early 19th Century) by unknown artist of religious paintings, most likely French. Former artwork owner indicated this work may have been a 'fragment' from a larger work but this is uncertain. It depicts, in half-length, the graceful Madonna in flowing but unadorned dress holding the baby Jesus on her lap enfolded in her arms. This type of depiction is iconic in both the Catholic and Orthodox churches. In some renderings of Mary such as this one, she looks directly at the viewer, her humility apparent in her appearance and visage. In this case, she serves as an intercessor, or conduit for prayers that flow from the Christian, to her, and only then, to her son. This image stresses the maternal role that Mary plays, representing her in relation to her infant son. That tenderness an ordinary mother might feel towards her beloved child is captured, evoking the moment when she first held her infant son, Christ. This artwork is a piece with special historical significance despite it being unattributed. Given its age, it is in fair condition in an antique wooden frame. Upon request, a video clip may be provided.
Dimensions with frame:
H 29 cm (11.4")
W 24.7 cm (9.7")
Dimensions without frame:
H 19 cm (7.5")
W 15 cm (5.9")