Bidspirit auction | Roman Master 18th century

Roman Master 18th century - Roman Master 18th century - The Adoration of the Shepherds. This 18th century oil painting is a masterful example of the Roman Baroque school representing the Adoration of the Shepherds with a dramatic and celebratory composition The scene is anchored by the Virgin Mary at the center reclining with a classical grace as she presents the Christ child to a gathered assembly of shepherds and family members The artist utilizes a sophisticated theatrical staging typical of the Roman tradition with an archangel descending from the heavens amidst golden clouds holding a phylactery to proclaim the divine birth The composition is populated by numerous figures in various states of devotion including a kneeling shepherd in the foreground and a woman carrying a basket of offerings all rendered with anatomical precision and expressive gestures The background reveals a rustic stable architecture set against a vast atmospheric landscape while the interplay of light and shadow emphasizes the rich color palette of lapis blue robes and warm terracotta earth tones This work embodies the monumental scale and spiritual fervor of Roman religious art during the high 18th century designed to inspire awe through its complex narrative and technical virtuosity. Oil on canvas , 74 x 44.5 cm Dimensions 74 x 44.5 cm