**Originally Listed At $1000**

Spanish Colonial, Mexico, 18th century CE. A touching nativity painting, its composition modeled after an Italian Renaissance artist, most likely of the Bassano family. The technique follows practices favored in 18th c. Mexico involving pigments ground in terracotta then layered with oils and varnish. The scene presents Mary, with Joseph at her side, laying Jesus in a manger as shepherds and ox adore, an angel overhead with a banner reading "GLORIA INEXCELSIS." Though set at night, Jesus is surrounded by holy light. Size: 28.375" L x 20.375" W (72.1 cm x 51.8 cm)

The theme of the Nativity and the Adoration of the Shepherds was a favorite of Renaissance artists and patrons. This painting was modeled after a Renaissance composition, most likely by one of the Bassano family, possibly Jacopo Bassano (1510-1592), who was born and died in Bassano del Grappa near Venice, hence his adopted name, or one of his sons, Leandro Bassano or Francesco Bassano the Younger. Notice the finely rendered landscape in the background. Bassano is regarded as a pioneer of landscape painting; however, his family workshop primarily focused on religious subjects. The works generally were depicted with brilliant colors attributed to a great appreciation for Titian's style. Note also the classical columned edifice in the background, a telltale detail of the Renaissance's reverence for the classical era. This composition was modeled on Bassano's early period, before he took on a new interest in Mannerism.

Provenance: Ex- Hawkins collection, Los Angeles, CA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#119072

Cracquelure to the surface, some scratches, a few areas of loss to varnished pigment as shown. Canvas on original wooden stretchers with handmade nails. Black tape bordering left and right sides. Painting would benefit from cleaning and conservation.