A splendid and rare alter painting, lambs (representing the lamb of God), oil painting on board. And if you walk around the alter to the backside, you see the other painting, a dark Jesus against a halo of gold and red, a bit creepy. I remember seeing something similar in the British Museum, a similar flat and rather creepy Christ, only visible behind the alter. Another was on display in one of the museums in Washington D.C., from memory. I'm not Catholic, and I don't quite know how to explain this painting, or why it is on a stand slowing it to be raised or lowered. Perhaps someone out there can enlighten me via email? Thanks in advance. I do know this one came out of France, and described to me (and also meets my own evaluation) as c.1840s, perhaps earlier. As France moves further into secular norms, the old chapels and cathedrals are selling off their own items like this to stay afloat. The painting of the lambs has high enough appeal to have captured my heart. While there is no signature, meaning it is likely the work of a monk or nun in service. A very interesting piece!
Very good condition for age and type, you can see there is a little scrape to the oil painting of the lambs, upper left of them. The paining is on board rather than canvas. A tiny touchup and it's perfect. The old frame on this side has some loss to the corner appliqués, visible in our photos. Stand and pole an interesting addition, and in fine working order. The base is 6 1/4" in diameter, very sturdy as support for the paintings. Painting of Christ is also oil on board, seems much much older, and has an eerie darkness to it. That frame is, however, in better condition. An interesting devotional, or a gorgeous little oil painting for a shelf or tabletop. Group with portrait miniatures, perhaps, or your collections. It has a real feel of the old Vernis Martin oil and varnish paintings. Measurements noted on our photos. Purchased in France.
