Italian school (XVII) - Maria Lactans

Large 17th Century Baroque Painting – "Maria Lactans" (Madonna and Child) – c. 1640 – NO RESERVE

An impressive and rare large-scale oil on canvas painting from the High Baroque period, dating to circa 1640.

The artwork masterfully depicts the sacred and intimate motif of the Maria Lactans—the Virgin Mary cradling and nursing the Christ Child, who is wrapped in traditional white swaddling clothes. In the lower foreground, a pewter plate holding apples serves as a classic theological symbol, referencing the Fall of Man and Christ as the redeemer.

The soft, fluid modeling of the skin tones, the expressive warmth in the Virgin's face, and the strong use of light and shadow (Chiaroscuro) heavily echo the artistic traditions of the 17th-century Italian or Spanish Schools. Given its commanding gallery dimensions, this piece was likely commissioned for a private family chapel or a grand aristocratic salon.

• Period / Date: Baroque, ca. 1640
• Medium: Oil on canvas
• Dimensions: 113 x 85 cm (Grand Gallery Size)
• Frame: Unframed
• Provenance: Acquired from a private estate. No signature or documentation found.

The painting is in an authentic, un-furbished state reflecting its 380+ years of history. The canvas and paint layers show wear, including widespread craquelure and patina. There are visible historical damages, as well as evidence of old, previous restoration work and touch-ups). Professional restoration and conservation should be considered to realize its full potential.

The lot is available for free local pickup in Paris. Alternatively, worldwide shipping can be arranged via a specialized fine art courier.