17th century Spanish school.
"Saint Dominic in Soriano".
Oil on canvas. Relined.
Measurements: 57 x 44 x 2 cm.
This work closely follows the paintings of the same subject made by Juan Bautista Maíno, a composition of which three autograph versions and numerous copies are known. Specifically, it follows almost verbatim the version currently in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, painted by the master from Alcarria around 1630, a century after the miracle depicted. These three works, two of which are in private collections, are cited by Pérez Sánchez in his book "Pintura madrileña del primer tercio del siglo XVII", p. 315.
The image narrates the miracle that took place in the Italian town of Soriano on the night of 15 September 1530. A pious and austere Dominican, called Fray Vicente, had arrived in the town to found a convent, which he managed to build with the help of Divine Providence. A small community of Dominican friars was thus established in Soriano and lived almost ignored, a situation that changed drastically in 1530. On the aforementioned date, Our Lady appeared to the friar sacristan of the monastery, Bro Lorenzo da Grottaria, and gave him a cloth depicting St. Dominic. Along with Mary, Mary Magdalene and St Catherine of Alexandria also appeared, as patrons of the Order of St Dominic. The painting given by Mary and the two saints was placed in the convent church, attracting numerous pilgrims and making the previously unknown convent famous, which became known as Santo Domingo de Soriano. Considered a miraculous image, it has since enjoyed great veneration and devotion.