Oil On Copper: "immaculate Conception." Italy, 18th Century.

A high-quality oil painting on copper depicting the Virgin in a full-length pose; her hands are clasped in prayer and her gaze is directed upwards, framed by a golden halo of rays (symbolizing the sun). She wears a light-colored robe and a voluminous dark blue mantle draped around her body. Apocalyptic and Lauretan symbols: At her feet, one can see the crescent moon and the serpent's head (representing the crushing of original sin)—classic elements of the Immaculate Conception derived from the Book of Revelation. To the sides, set against a dark, atmospheric background, faint outlines of Marian symbols from the Litany are visible, such as towers, fountains, a mirror (*Speculum Iustitiae*), and sacred architecture. The figure's pose and the treatment of the drapery reflect the great Baroque and devotional traditions of the 17th and 18th centuries (recalling models by Carlo Maratta or Emilian/Roman Classicist painting). However, the overall execution suggests an Italian origin dating to the second half of the 18th century. The Frame The frame is a striking visual element; it is a "cassetta" (box-style) frame featuring a wide, outwardly flared cove molding. The gilding is executed in *mecca* (lacquer-gilded silver leaf), a technique often associated with Southern Italian craftsmanship. The condition of the copper panel is fair. Total dimensions (including frame): 33.5 cm x 27 cm; dimensions of the copper panel alone: ​​21 cm x 15 cm.