19th Century Oil - The Rest on the Flight into Egypt

A beautiful example of a 19th century Italian devotional portrait depicting the Holy Family in the classic Madonna Lactans tradition. Mary nursing the infant Jesus has deep roots in Italian sacred art. Joseph appears on the left in his typical role as a humble, elder presence gazing tenderly at the Child. The intimacy of the grouping emphasises the humanity of the divine family. The composition clearly draws upon characteristics of Raphael and the Roman High Renaissance. Mary's broad-brimmed straw hat is an unusual detail, appearing in a number of 17th - 18th century Italian and Flemish Holy Family paintings that reference the Rest on the Flight into Egypt, suggesting a pause on the family's journey. The handling of drapery, the soft sfumato-like modelling of flesh tones, and the somewhat loose brushwork in the background suggest a competent but possibly provincial Italian workshop painter rather than a major master. This is consistent with the kind of devotional artwork produced in considerable numbers for churches and chapels across Italy during this period. The painting is unsigned. On canvas.