Pair of 18th–19th Century Peruvian Colonial Painted Wood Panels

Details

Description

A rare and highly decorative pair of Peruvian Colonial painted wooden panels, dating to the late 18th to early 19th … Read more A rare and highly decorative pair of Peruvian Colonial painted wooden panels, dating to the late 18th to early 19th century, each painted directly on carved wood, with integrated polychrome and gilt decoration. 20.5 inches in height, 14 inches wide, 0.5 inches deep.

These works are not framed paintings; rather, the painted imagery and carved architectural surrounds form a single, unified panel, as was common in Colonial Andean devotional and decorative art. The carved borders, painted floral motifs, and gilded elements are original to the panels and integral to their construction.

Panel One – Pastoral Scene

This panel depicts a lively pastoral tableau with figures gathered near a rustic dwelling, trees, water, and birds in flight. The scene reflects the narrative storytelling and village imagery typical of Peruvian Colonial painting, rendered in warm earth tones and expressive figures.

Panel Two – Religious / Devotional Scene

The companion panel presents a devotional composition featuring angelic figures and symbolic elements, painted directly onto the carved wood surface. The imagery shows strong Baroque influence combined with regional Andean interpretation.

Construction & Technique
• Hand-painted directly on solid wood panels
• Integrated carved borders with original polychrome and gilt decoration
• Unified construction (not later framing)
• Hand-cut wooden backs with early hanging cords

Condition

Condition is consistent with age and use. The panels show expected surface wear, craquelure, paint loss, and patina throughout, along with wear to the polychrome and gilded decoration. No structural instability observed. Wear is appropriate and contributes to the authenticity and character of the works.

Origin

Believed to originate from Peru, consistent with Colonial Andean artistic traditions. See less