School Of Toledo (c. 1550) - The Virgin Of The Pear

Oil on softwood panel. Slight age-related defects, with some signs of wood gnawing. Work restored by a previous owner in the mid-20th century. This impressive "Madonna of the Pear" perfectly combines the discoveries of the Italian Renaissance with the dynamism of the 16th-century Hispanic world. Sculptural folds, Michelangelo volumes, and Mannerist techniques blend with Catholicism and Spanish Late Gothic customs in this spectacular panel, which bears an ancient inscription [Santiago Martín] on the back, probably from the early 17th century, certainly related to its owner or donor. Drawing on the influences of notable masters such as Vicente Macip, Juan de Juanes, and Correa de Vivar, all of whom energized Spanish visual art with formulas from an Italy in full aesthetic ferment, the painting draws directly on Venetian sources by placing the portrait of the Virgin behind a low wall, with an open window in the background. The magnificent and imposing central figure is articulated as a powerful marble Madonna, pyramidal in plan, animated by classical draperies and agile, elegant gestures. The pear, a traditional metaphor for Christ incarnate, and the coral pendant, a mysterious apotropaic amulet specific to the Iberian world, complete the iconological gallery. In short, this work will be a valuable addition to any collection of old master paintings thanks to its evident quality and its perfect integration into the artistic debates between Italian, indigenous and Flemish art on the European periphery of the 16th century arts. - Unframed image dimensions: 46 x 32 cm - Galerie Montbaron includes a technical sheet prepared by a certified art historian with all its lots. This sheet is sent digitally upon request.