This exquisite early 17th-century Italian oil painting, which probably originated in Bologna, Italy, depicts the Madonna reading. It’s stylistically reminiscent of works by Lorenzo Costa (1460-1535).
The subtle nuances of delicate porcelain skin glow with a divine and deeply spiritual light. Her right hand is held towards her heart, while her left is gently placed upon a book of hours. Her blessed status is demonstrated via a golden halo, which conveys an ethereal presence and frames her bowed head.
Images of ‘The Virgin Reading’, or ‘Madonna Leggente’, flourished in Europe from the 14th century and generally represent the moments prior to the arrival of the Archangel Gabriel, the messenger of the Annunciation.
“Don't be afraid, Mary; God has been gracious to you. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus." Luke 1:30-31.
At times, as we see here, the Madonna is depicted already with child - her robes ruffled in expectation of the impending news.
During the 16th century, the Bolognese School of painting thrived and became a rival to the dominance of Florence and Rome. Artists included the Caracci family, such as Ludovico Carracci (1555-1619), and the brothers Annibale Carracci (1560-1609) and Agostino Carracci (1557-1602), who founded the Accademia degli Incamminati, or ‘Eclectic Academy of Painting’.
When one compares this work to the oeuvre of Lorenzo Costa (1460-1535), who worked predominantly in Bologna, particularly his ‘The Holy Family’ from 1490, the similarities are compelling. It’s conceivable that the artistic DNA underpinning this piece stems from his influence.
Held in a splendid gilt frame from the period, which is possibly original.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 35½” x 43” / 90cm x 109cm
Year of creation: c. 1600
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed on the reverse with an attribution to an artist working in Lombardy during the 16th century.
Provenance: Private collection, UK.
Condition: Cleaned. Revarnished. Canvas relined. Faint stretcher marks. Later stretcher. Craquelure throughout. The paint layer is stable. Frame bowed due to its age and with various wear as you would expect.
Our reference: BRV2157
