The Education of the Virgin

The Education of the Virgin Carlo Francesco Nuvolone (Milan 1609 – 1662) Oil on canvas Gilded frame Canvas cm. 80 x 106 Frame cm. 87 x 113 Excellent condition The Education of the Virgin is a widespread subject in 17th-century painting, depicting Saint Anne instructing the infant Mary in the Holy Scriptures. The large canvas presented here illustrates the scene in a more complex and interesting manner, with the appearance of God the Father surrounded by joyful cherubs, blessing the Mother and Daughter. They are joined by Joachim, who gazes in wonder at the divine vision. The scenic composition is highly refined and excellently arranged, with a striking sense of volume. The artist positions the three figures in the foreground to form a horizontal line across the canvas, rendering them sharply defined both frontally and in profile, and infusing them with chiaroscuro contrasts to bring them to life. In contrast, the severe figure of God the Father and the group of cherubs are depicted with less detail, avoiding strong contrasts to convey the sense of a supernatural event. The result is surprising, with the canvas showing the two scenes connected and very close, yet distinctly separated into two different contexts: one earthly and one divine. The work, of excellent craftsmanship, belongs to Lombard Baroque painting of the mid-17th century and exhibits the pictorial and coloristic characteristics of the Milanese master Carlo Francesco Nuvolone (Milan 1609 – 1662). This canvas demonstrates his preference for elegantly blended tones, free from vibrant colors and forced juxtapositions. The painting is in excellent condition, complete with a thin gilded frame. An old relining was performed perfectly last century (see detail). Price negotiable - Personalized payment We provide a certificate of authenticity guaranteeing the period, provenance, and all characteristics of the work, drawn up by an antiquarian affiliated with FIMA (ITALIAN FEDERATION OF ART DEALERS). Delivery in Italy and throughout Europe within 3 days of receipt of bank transfer. Shipping is tracked and insured and travels with careful shockproof packaging inside a custom-made wooden crate.