This early 19th-century oil painting references the Mandylion of Edessa, a likeness of Christ that became imprinted upon a small cloth, which he had used to wash and dry his face.
The image was presented to King Abgar, the King of Edessa (Turkey), who was then cured of leprosy and arthritis.
An inscription along the bottom of the painting reads ‘Il Vero Retrate Del Nostro J'Dio: Presentato al Re di Abagaro’, which translates as ‘The True Image Of Our J'Dio: Presented to the King of Abagaro’.
Today, the image is referred to as the Mandylion and it’s often been the subject of Christian iconography. Various depictions exist but the location of the original relic is unknown. Some scholars believe that the Mandylion is in fact the Shroud of Turin.
This particular painting was probably created for private worship or perhaps for a small chapel. It’s nicely rendered and portrays Christ’s image with charm and sensitivity.
It’s housed within a later frame.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 13½” x 16” / 34cm x 49cm
Year of creation: c. 1800
Condition: Craquelure but the paint is stable. Canvas relined. Frame with some light wear.
