The Nativity, Adam Elsheimer (in The Taste Of), Early 17th Century

The Nativity – formerly attributed to Adam Elsheimer (1574–1620). Oil on copper original inlaid frame. 
Beautiful Nativity scene painted on copper, depicting the Virgin Mary, the Infant Jesus, Saint Joseph, the ox and the donkey, in an intimate and luminous composition. The background unfolds a deep and calm landscape, treated with great finesse, in the spirit of the minor Germanic and Flemish masters of the early 17th century.
This painting, of small format, is characteristic of the precious devotional works made on copper, often intended for enlightened collectors. By its refinement and meditative atmosphere, it evokes the influence of Adam Elsheimer, a German painter active in Rome, close to Rubens and a great admirer of Caravaggio.
The work is accompanied by its beautiful original frame, in blackened wood, inlaid with bone or ivory fillets and geometric motifs typical of German-Flemish productions around 1600. Visible accidents and losses.  An old handwritten label attached to the back of the panel states: “ELSHEIMER Adam – born in Frankfurt 1574 – died in Rome 1620 – pupil of Uffenbach. Very young he left Germany for Italy. He is recognized by Roman painters of Germany (see copper painting of the painter sold December 17, 1932 at Fievez in Brussels, great similarities).”
This text suggests a direct comparison with a work sold in 1932 in Brussels, reinforcing the old attribution to Elsheimer or his circle.

Dimensions with frame 29x34 cm

Condition: Very good general condition; wear to the frame