Saint Joseph with the Child "Paternity"

Saint Joseph with the Child "Paternity"
Francesco de Mura (Napoli 1698-1786) workshop

Oil on canvas
Canvas measures 76 x 60 frame 93 x 77
The painting is on the first canvas and on the original frame.
Very good condition without restoration or repainting

One of the most successful interpretations of "Fatherhood" performed in the studio of the famous Neapolitan maestro Francesco de Mura, with a truly loving image capable of meaningfully expressing the theme of the Father's affection for his Son

Saint Joseph lovingly receives the Child in his paternal arms.

The child's body is naked to increase its natural attachment and the two faces touch cheek to cheek, recalling the iconographic typology of the "Virgin of Tenderness"

The quality of this painting is truly remarkable and the perfect balance between strength and intrinsic elegance is evident in the stylistic and chromatic characteristics of De Mura.

Writing brushstrokes is quick and unadorned, but extremely precise and with exceptional descriptive performance.
The work is indeed to be included among his most mature production, between 1750 and 1760, considered to be the most significant artistic moment of his very long activity.

Now famous and celebrated as one of the greatest representatives of Rococo, from his excellent workshop come works of the highest level commissioned to embellish the most important churches and the houses of the rich nobles of the South.
Ours was certainly intended for private devotion, as evidenced by its kindness and easy-to-place measures.

The painting is on the first canvas still on the original frame and its condition is just as excellent.
It has been cleaned and protective varnish applied (last photo before cleaning).