This early 19th-century oil painting by Hungarian artist Joszef Schmidt (1810-1875) depicts the Mater Dolorosa. It’s after a work by Italian artist, Guido Reni (1575-1642). Schmidt was primarily active in Vienna and known predominantly as a painter of history and biblical subjects.

With hands clasped in prayer and eyes directed upwards, the Virgin conveys a deep sense of sorrow for the loss of her son. It’s an iconic portrayal, rendered with delicate brushwork and vivid colouring. The handling of the drapery, in homage to the original, is both deft and convincing. Her blue cloak and golden head covering, brought forward by the dark background. It carries a level of Baroque intensity yet softened by the ethereal grace of the subject.

Reni, together with his workshop, produced numerous versions of the Mater Dolorosa. An inscription refers to 'Prag', so presumably, the original was on view in Prague in 1829. Schmidt studied at the Vienna Academy and exhibited in Budapest and Vienna from 1834.

Inscribed on the reverse and held in a later gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on panel
Overall size: 27” x 32” / 69cm x 83cm
Year of creation: 1829
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed on the reverse as follows: 'Nach Quido Reni gemalt / von Jos: Schmidt / Prag 1829’.
Provenance: Private collection, Germany.
Condition: Cleaned. Areas of fine and settled craquelure, as you would expect. Minor crack around a knot in the panel. The paint layer is stable. Frame with various marks and showing its age.
Artist’s auction maximum: £6,606 for ‘Szapáry Releases The Turks (1844)’, Oil on canvas, Virag Judit Gallery & Auction House, Budapest, Hungary, 20 September 2020 (lot 134).
Our reference: BRV2155