Immaculate Conception, Late 19th Century, Engravings, Set of 2

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Superb, colorful engravings of the Virgin Mary.
The first is inspired by the work of Pierre Mignard (1612-1695): La Vierge … Read more Superb, colorful engravings of the Virgin Mary.
The first is inspired by the work of Pierre Mignard (1612-1695): La Vierge aux raisins. This depiction, which exudes love and gentleness, shows Mary and Jesus leaning against each other, holding a bunch of grapes. The child looks benevolently at us, while Mary lowers her eyes to the fruit. The grapes refer to the maturation of the divinity, the sacrament of the Eucharist and the wine press, symbolizing Christ's death as a martyr.
The second is inspired by the work of Murillo (1618-1682): Soult's Immaculate Conception. The Virgin is carried by clouds and surrounded by cherubs. She appears on a crescent moon, draped in clothes floating in the sky. The artistic trend at the end of the Middle Ages thus readily equated the Virgin with the "Woman" of the Apocalypse, whom Saint John describes wrapped in the sun, with the moon at her feet, a symbol of inconstancy and corruption. The elegance, grace and beauty of this Virgin remind us that the one described as "God's masterpiece" was more beautiful not only than the daughters of men, but even than the angels.
These two engravings are surrounded by magnificent oval wooden frames gilded with gold leaf. Molded and domed, they are richly carved with refined floral compositions and ribboned friezes.



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Period: Late 19th century

Excellent condition. See less