European Oil Painting of the Virgin Mary in Mourning | Circa 18th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe
Material: Oil on canvas
Period: 18th Century
Description
This evocative, unsigned oil painting captures the Virgin Mary in a moment of profound sorrow and devotion. Rendered with delicate brushwork, her upward gaze and tearful yet serene expression embody both anguish and spiritual reverence. One hand rests tenderly against her chest in a gesture of sorrow, while the other provides subtle support, enhancing the painting’s intimate and contemplative tone. She is depicted wearing a rich red garment beneath a dark mantle, with her illuminated face and hands emphasized against a muted olive-green background. The use of chiaroscuro creates depth and three-dimensionality, a hallmark of 18th-century European devotional art.
Features
- Emotional portrayal of the Virgin Mary with tearful expression and upward gaze
- Subtle gestures of devotion enhancing symbolic depth
- Rich red and dark mantle attire, contrasted against a muted background
- Masterful use of chiaroscuro to heighten realism and spiritual intensity
- Housed in an elegant later gilt wood frame with warm golden tones
Cultural Significance
Devotional paintings of the Virgin Mary were central to Catholic spirituality in Europe, serving as visual meditations on compassion, sacrifice, and divine suffering. This work elevates Mary’s sorrow as a universal symbol of human anguish and spiritual endurance, embodying both artistic mastery and religious devotion.
Condition
The painting remains in good condition, with minor, age-appropriate wear that underscores its authenticity. The canvas retains its strength, and the colors have softened gracefully over time, giving the piece both historical depth and contemplative presence.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 27 in
Width: 22 in
Age
Over 200 years old
Learn More
Reflect further on the symbolism of Mary’s sorrow and devotional imagery: Grief & Divine — Reflection on Our Lady of Sorrows
Explore sacred relics, devotional art, and religious artifacts in our collection: Artifacts of Worship & Devotion — Sacred Relics | Relic And Rarity
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe
Material: Oil on canvas
Period: 18th Century
Description
This evocative, unsigned oil painting captures the Virgin Mary in a moment of profound sorrow and devotion. Rendered with delicate brushwork, her upward gaze and tearful yet serene expression embody both anguish and spiritual reverence. One hand rests tenderly against her chest in a gesture of sorrow, while the other provides subtle support, enhancing the painting’s intimate and contemplative tone. She is depicted wearing a rich red garment beneath a dark mantle, with her illuminated face and hands emphasized against a muted olive-green background. The use of chiaroscuro creates depth and three-dimensionality, a hallmark of 18th-century European devotional art.
Features
- Emotional portrayal of the Virgin Mary with tearful expression and upward gaze
- Subtle gestures of devotion enhancing symbolic depth
- Rich red and dark mantle attire, contrasted against a muted background
- Masterful use of chiaroscuro to heighten realism and spiritual intensity
- Housed in an elegant later gilt wood frame with warm golden tones
Cultural Significance
Devotional paintings of the Virgin Mary were central to Catholic spirituality in Europe, serving as visual meditations on compassion, sacrifice, and divine suffering. This work elevates Mary’s sorrow as a universal symbol of human anguish and spiritual endurance, embodying both artistic mastery and religious devotion.
Condition
The painting remains in good condition, with minor, age-appropriate wear that underscores its authenticity. The canvas retains its strength, and the colors have softened gracefully over time, giving the piece both historical depth and contemplative presence.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 27 in
Width: 22 in
Age
Over 200 years old
Learn More
Reflect further on the symbolism of Mary’s sorrow and devotional imagery: Grief & Divine — Reflection on Our Lady of Sorrows
Explore sacred relics, devotional art, and religious artifacts in our collection: Artifacts of Worship & Devotion — Sacred Relics | Relic And Rarity
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