Cusco School, Saint Raphael Archangel, 19th Century, Oil on Canvas, Framed

Details

Description

A striking 19th-century Peruvian Cusco School oil painting depicting Saint Raphael the Archangel, represented according to the distinctive religious iconography … Read more A striking 19th-century Peruvian Cusco School oil painting depicting Saint Raphael the Archangel, represented according to the distinctive religious iconography and richly decorative traditions of Andean painting. The winged archangel appears in an elaborately patterned costume, its surface enriched with extensive gilt or metallic detailing recalling the sumptuous textiles characteristic of Cusqueña religious art. Raphael holds a fish, his traditional attribute derived from the biblical Book of Tobit and associated with healing, protection and safe journeys. The figure is dramatically positioned against an atmospheric landscape with distant trees, mountains and cascading water. The combination of European Christian imagery with highly decorative costume, stylised modelling and local artistic traditions reflects the enduring influence of the Cusco School, which developed in colonial Peru and continued through subsequent generations of regional workshops. Particularly appealing is the extensive brocateado-style decoration across the archangel's garments, creating the appearance of richly embroidered ceremonial textiles and giving the composition considerable visual depth. Dating to approximately the late 19th century, circa 1880, the work is executed in oil on canvas with metallic decorative highlights and presented within a simple gilt frame. An evocative example of South American devotional art with substantial decorative presence, particularly suited to collections of Latin American art, religious paintings and Cusco School works. Artist / School Cusco (Cuzco) School, workshop tradition Origin Peru Period Late 19th Century, circa 1880 Subject Saint Raphael the Archangel Material Oil on canvas with gilt/metallic decorative detailing Measurements Height: 71 cm / 28 in Width: 52 cm / 20.5 in Depth: approx. 3 cm / 1.2 in (framed) See less