The Madonna Of Divine Love - French Artist After Raphael - 18th Century

The Madonna of Divine Love
French artist after Raphael Sanzio
Oil on panel
18th century
Panel dimensions: 38 x 50 cm
Gilded frame: 53 x 65 cm
Excellent condition

The painting is a splendid copy, executed in oil on panel, of the famous "Madonna of Divine Love" painted in 1517 by Raphael, now housed in the Capodimonte National Museum. The dimensions are much smaller than those of the original panel, which measures 140 x 109 cm, but the finesse of the painting equally captures all the characteristics of Raphael’s masterpiece.
Mary is seated in the foreground with the Infant Jesus, who turns toward the young Saint John and blesses him. Next to her stands Saint Elizabeth in a slight shadow (according to some scholars, this is Saint Anne). Further away, in the background, the upright figure of Saint Joseph appears detached, completely in shadow.  Instead of the traditional pyramidal composition, the scene is arranged in an innovative diagonal layout, centered on the Virgin’s outstretched left leg as she holds the Child, reminiscent of the “Madonna del Belvedere.” Jesus seems drawn to the cross held by Saint John and reaches out to receive it, reaffirming his acceptance of his destiny. The presence of Joseph, albeit marginal, reaffirms his role as protector of the Holy Family.
The artist is an outstanding 18th-century French painter who created, on commission, an image perfectly suited for private devotion, and which enjoyed enormous success even in France.
The panel is in excellent condition and is presented complete with its contemporary gilded frame.