Object Description
Pair of large oil-on-canvas Venetian religious scenes after Paolo Veronese
Italian, 17th-18th Century
Canvas: Height 99cm, width 56cm
Frame: Height 130cm, width 87cm, depth 9cm
This fine pair of monumental Venetian religious scenes, created after Paolo Veronese (1528–1588), demonstrates the lasting appeal of the Venetian master’s dramatic and richly coloured style. Veronese’s influence extended far beyond the 16th century, inspiring artists who adopted his theatrical handling of sacred themes, luminous palette, and sophisticated architectural settings. These works echo that tradition through their elegant arrangement of figures and their elevated devotional atmosphere.
The first painting portrays The Madonna and Child with the Infant Saint John the Baptist, attended by Saint Justina, Saint Francis, and Saint Jerome. The composition centres on the enthroned Madonna, whose calm presence contrasts with the dynamic gestures of the surrounding saints. Drapery, stepped architecture, and soft illumination all reflect the Venetian approach to sacred painting, creating a scene that is both ceremonial and intimate.
Its companion painting focuses on Saint Francis ministering to a suffering man, raising his eyes toward a celestial vision as angels and cherubs descend from above. The varied reactions of the gathered figures—concern, awe, and devotion—lend emotional depth to the narrative. The artist employs warm shadows, expressive postures, and a sense of upward movement to heighten the spiritual drama characteristic of works inspired by Veronese.
Both paintings are housed in handsome giltwood frames, richly carved and well-suited to their scale and subject matter.
To the reverse, each canvas retains early gallery labels from G. L. Chaux, 7 Rue Daguerre, Paris, dated 1929, adding historical interest and provenance.
Impressive in size and execution, this pair becomes a compelling addition to any collection of European art.