18th Century Italian Triptych, Oil on Panel

An extraordinary and highly rare item. This triptych or altarpiece was produced in continental Europe (probably Italy) for either private devotion in a family chapel or possibly to meet the growing demand of the 18th century European ‘Grand Tourists’ who wanted to bring home a memento of their visit abroad. It is a highly ornate, extremely rare, interesting, and very attractive.

Its central panel consists of the depiction of Christ on the cross with devotional attendees below. In the back buildings and a town are visible. The left panel depicts a male saint playing a harp alongside cherubs playing musical instruments, some seated and some above in the clouds. The right panel depicts Saint Ceclia playing the organ and a lout nearby - her usual accoutrements as depicted in art. Various cherubs are engaged in playing wind instruments, below and above. Just visible are two youngsters reading script from the book; duplicated on the other panel.

The triptych form arises from early Christian art, and was a popular standard format for altar paintings from the Middle Ages onwards. Painted and sculptors used it. From the Gothic period onward, both in Europe and elsewhere, altarpieces in churches and cathedrals were often in triptych form.

An absolutely stunning artwork and very desirable.

Provenance: UK private collection

Measurements: Open - Height 65cm, Width 85cm, Depth 8cm

Closed - Height 64cm, Width 42cm, Depth 11cm

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