True effigy of Christ the Savior. 17th-century Spanish Colonial Viceroyalty

Descriptio Oil on canvas. Dimensions: 38 x 30 cm. The image shows the face of Christ against a black background, with long hair, a beard, and a direct, serene, and penetrating gaze. Beneath the image, a Latin inscription indicates that this is the "Vera Imago Salvatoris DN Iesu Xp. ad Regem Abagarum missa, " alluding to the ancient tradition of the "Mandylion, " or miraculous image sent to King Abgar. The simplicity of the frontal format, without any other narrative elements, seeks to generate an effect of confrontation and spiritual recollection. The brushstrokes are restrained, and the modeling of the face, especially around the eyes, reveals subtle work in the transition of light. The work belongs to the Italo-Flemish tradition of the early 17th century, where Italian mystical sobriety merges with Flemish formal precision. This effigy, full of Christological symbolism, refers to a silent and transcendent devotion, being a piece of notable symbolic force and spiritual contemplation. Due to its age and history of use, this lot may show signs of wear and previous interventions. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, no specialized technical testing has been performed. The absence of any mention of restorations does not guarantee that none exist. You may request additional information before placing a bid. This does not affect the buyer’s statutory rights.

Estimate:£2,509.29

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