Southern European Master (XVI) - The Circumcision of Christ

The Circumcision of Christ Southern European Master, c. 1580 Oil on Panel • Period Giltwood Frame 103 x 57 cm (+ frame) This late 16th-century work balances devotional intimacy with the formal, theatrical staging characteristic of Late Renaissance and Mannerist masters. The composition features the Christ Child at the epicenter upon a draped altar table, as a high priest in an intricately brocade cope and mitre performs the sacred rite. The scene is witnessed by the Virgin Mary in a traditional blue mantle alongside Saint Anne, framed by a gathering of venerable elders. Two sacrificial doves rest upon the white linen, symbolizing the traditional presentation and purification rites. The artwork is well-preserved, exhibiting stable craquelure and deep color saturation typical of seasoned period panels. While it shows some natural wear and visible signs of age consistent with its late 16th-century origin, the structural integrity remains sound. It is housed in a substantial, carved giltwood frame that enhances its presentation. This piece offers a rare opportunity for discerning private collectors, institutions, or estates to acquire a significant work of late 16th-century sacred art.

Estimate:$2,801.1

View all items fromCatawikiorArts & Graphics