High Relief Sculpture Depicting The Nativity, Spain (seville) 16th Century

High relief sculpture depicting the Nativity
Spain (Seville) - second half of the 16th century

Carved and engraved wood, polychrome with gold finishes
Dimensions: 94 x 71 cm.

Full details of the work (click HERE)

This is a polychrome wooden sculpture dating back to the late Spanish Renaissance, depicting the Nativity, in particular the Adoration of the Child by Mary and Joseph accompanied by four large winged angels, two above resting on clouds and two in the main scene, sharing a scroll with the inscription 'Gloria in excelsis Deo '.



The sculpture captures a moment of devotion and religious narration, typical of the sacred art of the period, which sees the Virgin Mary bent over the Baby Jesus, lying in a wicker manger, with Saint Joseph behind her observing the scene while holding a lantern.

The work is in a style typical of Spanish sacred art, characterised by strong realism and the use of brightly painted wood. The style is characterised by robust figures, intense expressions and vivid use of colour, with gold details on the angels' wings and clothing.

The composition is dense, with the figures grouped around the focal point of the Child, creating a sense of intimacy and devotion. The depth of the relief varies, with some figures protruding more than others.

The influence of Italian Renaissance Mannerist models brought to Spain by Alonso Berruguete (Valencia 1485/1489 - Toledo 1561) is evident. Berruguete came to Italy, staying and working in Rome and Florence, where he learned the stylistic canons of the Italian 16th century, which he reworked upon his return to his homeland around 1517.

We assume that the work was part of a larger narrative composition, positioned in the compartments of a monumental altar that most likely followed the central theme of the life of Christ. Altars with doors were commissioned from the most important sculptors of the time, who were able to create works that could exceed several metres in height and could take many years to complete.

The bas-relief shows signs of wear, discolouration and repainting, which testify to its age.


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

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