Madonna and Child with Rosary, 1850, Paper

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Madonna and Child with Rosary – La Ste Vierge dite au Chapelet, circa 1850 This elegant 19th-century lithograph titled La … Read more Madonna and Child with Rosary – La Ste Vierge dite au Chapelet, circa 1850 This elegant 19th-century lithograph titled La Ste Vierge dite au Chapelet (The Holy Virgin Known as the Rosary Madonna), also labeled in Spanish as 'La Sma Virgen del Rosario', is a refined reproduction after a work originally by the Spanish Baroque master Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617–1682). Known for his tender and serene religious scenes, Murillo’s influence endured well into the 19th century, especially among collectors of devotional imagery. The lithograph was drawn by Lemoine and lithographed by Pierre, and published by E. Savary & Cie, Rue du Louvre 10 in Paris. The London publisher was Ernest Gambart, one of the most prominent art dealers of the 19th century, based at 25 Berners Street, Oxford Street. This print is numbered 56 in a prestigious series of museum-quality reproductions. Based on the publisher and style, this print was likely published around 1850. The composition shows the Virgin Mary seated calmly, looking gently ahead, while the Christ Child rests on her lap, holding a rosary. The rosary beads are delicately rendered, and their inclusion makes this a symbolic image of Marian devotion, emphasizing themes of prayer, grace, and maternal love. The soft modeling and smooth transitions in tone highlight the technical finesse of the lithographic method used, allowing the artist to capture the quiet atmosphere and sacred intimacy of Murillo’s original. Lithography, invented in the late 18th century, became the preferred technique for high-quality art reproductions in the mid-19th century due to its ability to convey subtle shading and painterly effects. This print exemplifies the aesthetic and religious tastes of the time, when reproductions of revered artworks were collected and displayed in private homes, chapels, and galleries. Condition report: The print is in very good condition. The image area is clean and well-preserved, with fine tonal range. There is light age-related foxing in the margins and some edge wear to the sheet, typical for a lithograph of this age. These do not affect the image itself. Framing tips: To enhance the devotional quality of this lithograph, a classic gold-leaf or antique bronze frame would work beautifully. Pair it with an ivory or soft cream mat to provide contrast and visual warmth. For a modern interpretation, a dark wood frame in walnut or black can add subtle sophistication. Use museum-grade glass with UV protection to preserve the rich tone and detail of the lithograph. This artwork would be a graceful addition to a traditional interior, a sacred space, or any collection focused on religious imagery and 19th-century prints. See less