Italian school (XVII) - Madonna Annunziata

Antique painting, oil on panel, dating from the 17th century, depicting the Annunciation

Interesting devotional painting depicting the Virgin Annunciate, executed in oil on panel and linked to the figurative culture developed around Scipione Pulzone's models (Gaeta, c. 1550 – Rome, 1598).
The composition presents the Virgin in half figure, head gently inclined, eyes lowered and the characteristic white veil laid over the blue mantle. The image derives from the fortunate model of the Virgin Annunciate by Scipione Pulzone, drawn from the famous Annunciation of 1587, from which the artist himself made variants and replicas of the Virgin figure alone, later subject to numerous derivatives.
Of particular significance is the presence, in the upper part, of the inscription “ECCE ANCILLA DOMINI” (“見よ、主のはしため”), a gospel formula directly referring to the Virgin’s response to the Annunciation and coherent with the iconographic identification of the figure as Virgin Annunciate.
The painting thus appears not to be a generic representation of the Madonna, but to reflect the fortune and diffusion of devotional models of Pulzonean origin, through an autonomous reworking of the figure of the Annunciate.

The work presents generally discrete conditions, with evident signs of time and previous restoration interventions. The pictorial surface shows widespread craquelure, particularly evident in the light areas of the flesh and veil, as well as numerous retouches and overpainting, detectable also under ultraviolet light. The superficial varnish appears oxidized and altered, with deposits and inhomogeneities due to the layering of conservation treatments. The poplar wood support, of notable thickness, shows a slight warping of the panel, as well as marks, insect burrows, and wear consistent with its long conservation history. There are also some irregularities and signs of ancient interventions on the back. Overall the work appears solid with a coherent historical patina, testifying to its authenticity and natural conservational evolution over time.

The painting is accompanied by a beautiful frame of classical taste but relatively recent era. There are defects, missing parts and signs of time, in addition to restorations and additions. It is provided as a courtesy and does not form an integral part of the artwork; any damage to it will not be a reason for complaint or order cancellation.

Dimensions of the painting: 36.5 x 27 cm - Dimensions of the frame: 47 x 37.5 cm

The work comes with a photographic certificate of authenticity, as required by current law.

Shipping with insured express courier and packaging carried out with the utmost care.