Pair Of Important Engravings “the Immaculate Conception” - Late 19th Century

Superb colored engravings depicting the Virgin Mary. The first is inspired by the work of Pierre Mignard (1612-1695): The Virgin of the Grapes. This representation from which emanates love and gentleness, depicts Mary and Jesus facing each other, holding a bunch of grapes. The child looks at us kindly and Marie looks down at the fruit. The latter are part of Christian symbolism: The grape refers to the maturation of the divinity, to the sacrament of the Eucharist but also to the wine press which symbolizes the death of Christ as a martyr. The second is inspired by the work of Murillo (1618-1682): The Immaculate Conception of Soult. The virgin is carried by clouds and surrounded by cherubs. She appears on a crescent moon, draped in her clothes floating in the sky. The artistic movement at the end of the Middle Ages thus readily assimilates the Virgin to the "Woman" of the Apocalypse, whom Saint John describes enveloped in the sun, with the moon at her feet, a symbol of inconstancy and corruption. The elegance, grace and beauty of this Virgin remind us that she who is called "God's masterpiece" had been more beautiful not only than the daughters of men, but even than the angels. These two engravings are surrounded by magnificent oval wooden frames gilded with gold leaf. Molded and domed, they are richly sculpted with refined floral arrangements and wrapped friezes. ******** Period: Late 19th Century Excellent condition. Additional photos available by clicking on the following link: https://www.antiquites-lecomte.com/boutique/cadres-et-tableaux/paire-dimportants-gravures-limmaculee-conception-fin-xixe Delivery possible in France and abroad 'international. Dimensions: Height: 57 cm Width: 49 cm Ref: 201123