Fine Pair of 18th Century French Religious Devotional Oils

This exquisite pair of oil on canvas paintings explores the central themes of divine intercession and monastic devotion.

The First Work: Depicts a Bishop Saint in Glory, possibly Saint Nicholas or Saint Ambrose. He is rendered in full liturgical vestments, including a richly embroidered cope and mitre, flanked by adoring cherubim amidst ethereal clouds. The upward gaze and open-palm gesture signify his role as an intercessor between the earthly and the divine.

The Second Work: Features a Monastic Saint, most likely Saint Anthony of Padua, depicted in the traditional brown habit of the Franciscan order. He is shown in a moment of profound spiritual intimacy, cradling the Infant Christ, who reaches out toward the viewer in a gesture of blessing. This specific iconography, Saint Anthony with the Christ Child, was among the most popular subjects for private devotion in 18th-century France and Italy.

Mid-18th Century, circa 1750.

Oil on canvas.

Sourced from a private collection in France, these works belong to the tradition of "Cabinet Paintings"—smaller-scale works intended for close study and personal reflection. While the hands are those of skilled provincial masters rather than the grand Academicians of Paris, the quality of the drapery and the emotive expressions reflect the pervasive influence of masters like Murillo and Tiepolo, whose religious compositions dominated the European Catholic imagination throughout the 1700s.

Dealer’s Comments

"Religious pendants of this quality are becoming increasingly difficult to find. What makes this pair so compelling is the contrast between the ecclesiastical grandeur of the Bishop and the humble, tactile tenderness of the Monk with the Child. They possess a wonderful, 'dusty' authenticity—a soft, aged palette that only centuries in a quiet French interior can produce. The scale is perfect for a modern collector, offering significant historical gravitas without the imposing size of an altarpiece."

Condition Report

Both works remain on their original canvases (unlined), which is highly desirable for maintaining the texture of the brushwork.

There is some stable craquelure throughout, consistent with 18th-century oils. Minor surface dirt present, which could be professionally cleaned to brighten the tones if desired, though many collectors prefer this 'as-found' state.

Housed in period-style carved giltwood frames which show some minor losses to the gilding, adding to the antique charm.

Measurement

Height:            48 cm /     18.9 inch (each)

Width:             38 cm /     15 inch (each)

Depth:             3 cm /        1.2 inch (each)

Weight:           0.9 k.g. /    2 lbs (each)