Saint Joseph And Jesus Under The Protection Of Angels - Important Italian School, 16th Century

Superb painting from the end of the 16th century, representing a touching and spiritual religious scene. This masterpiece illustrates Saint Joseph holding the Child Jesus in his arms, surrounded by benevolent angels symbolizing divine protection.

The background, magnificently worked, reveals an enchanting landscape with majestic architecture, including a temple, an imposing column and draperies that give the whole a theatrical grandeur. In the depth of the composition, the Virgin Mary is represented in a meditative posture, instructing young angels, bringing a touch of serenity and spiritual elevation.

Iconographic and historical analysis
The Holy Paternity, the central theme of the work, celebrates the figure of Saint Joseph as the adoptive father of Christ. In Christian iconography, this subject highlights the protective and educational role of Joseph, often relegated to the background in medieval religious art, but which takes on its full importance during the Renaissance and the Baroque period.

This painting is part of the tradition of the Italian and Flemish masters of the late 16th century, a period when domestic piety and the promotion of the Holy Family were recurring themes in religious painting. Scenes depicting Saint Joseph as the spiritual guide and protector of the Child Jesus experienced a remarkable boom, particularly under the influence of the Catholic Church, which encouraged renewed devotion to him.

Artistic and technical details
Technique: Oil on canvas
Condition: Exceptional, with its original canvas and stretcher
Frame: Splendid solid oak frame, decorated with carved and gilded wooden spandrels from the same period, giving the whole a prestigious cachet
Dimensions: 154 x 122 cm (with frame); 125 x 83 cm (canvas only)
Palette and staging
The rich and deep colours used in this work are evidence of the painter's mastery. The warm tones of ochre and brown contrast with the azure of the sky, creating an effect of divine light that illuminates the sacred figures. The delicately crafted modeling of the flesh accentuates the humanity of the characters while retaining a mystical touch specific to religious painting of the time.

The use of chiaroscuro reinforces the spiritual and dramatic atmosphere, giving an impression of movement and depth. The play of glances between Saint Joseph, the Child Jesus and the angels invites the viewer to a contemplative meditation on fatherhood and divine protection.

Why acquire this work?
This painting is a masterpiece for any collector passionate about sacred art, the Renaissance and the Baroque. Its exceptional condition and its original frame make it a valuable investment, perfect for enriching a private collection or for enhancing a refined interior.

Secure shipping by specialized carrier, with reinforced packaging to guarantee delivery in perfect condition.

#ItalianArt #16thCentury #OilOnCanvas #SaintJoseph #VirginMary #Angels #GoldFrame #SacredArt #OldPainting #Antiques #Collector #RenaissanceArt #Baroque #Masterpiece