Rare Pair of French 18th-Century Devotional Paintings – Crucifixion and Christ Among the Doctors

Rare pair of French devotional paintings in oil on oval wooden panels, dating from the early 18th century. The two paintings are housed in elegant oval gilded wooden frames with beaded moulding, enhancing their refined and devotional character.

The first painting depicts the Crucifixion of Christ. Jesus is shown on the cross, his head surrounded by a luminous halo, standing out against a twilight sky crossed by golden rays. At the foot of the cross, with the skull of Adam prominently placed in the foreground, appear the Virgin Mary, wearing a blue mantle and red robe, and Saint John in prayer, wrapped in a red mantle. In the distance, the silhouette of a city can be seen along the horizon.

The second painting illustrates the Gospel episode of Jesus Among the Doctors of the Temple. The young Christ, shown with a halo, sits in an elevated position behind a lectern and engages in discussion with the learned doctors, who surround him holding books and scrolls and gesturing animatedly. On the right, the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph can be identified. The crowded and lively composition is painted in a warm palette dominated by reds, ochres and deep greens.

This rare pair of 18th-century French religious paintings is particularly interesting for collectors of antique devotional art and European religious painting. The oval format and original gilded frames add considerable decorative appeal.

Available separately upon request.

Origin: France
Period: Early 18th century
Dimensions: 41 x 46h cm

SKU: 17571