127 - Mother of God of Vladimir - 19th century

Mother of God of Vladimir - 19th century Oil on panel Height x width: 18 x 15 cm Belonging to the theological type known as Eleusa, or the Virgin of Tenderness. The close-up composition highlights the profound emotional bond between the two sacred figures: the Virgin Mary is depicted in a half-length portrait, holding the Divine Infant, who clings tenderly to her neck, resting his cheek against his Mother’s in an intimate gesture of affection that mystically foreshadows the mystery of the Passion. The faces—rendered with a warm, amber-toned palette and delicate highlights—are remarkable for their extraordinary expressive intensity; this is especially true of the Virgin’s face, whose large, dark eyes reflect a deep, solemn spiritual melancholy. Almost the entire painted surface is enclosed and protected by a sumptuous metal riza (revetment), intricately crafted using repoussé, chasing, and punching techniques, which lend a sculptural quality to the forms and drapery. Surrounding the heads of the Virgin and the Child rises a majestic halo, featuring an openwork, contoured radiant design; its flame-like rays amplify the luminosity of this divine epiphany. The riza reproduces the folds of the Virgin’s maphorion (mantle) and the Child’s tunic with meticulous precision, further embellishing the garments with engraved star-like and geometric motifs. H.E. Most Rev. Francisco-Javier Lozano Sebastián, Titular Archbishop of Penafiel and Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus. Item condition rating: **** good. The lot is in good condition, with normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time.