Important Adoration of the Shepherds, workshop version by José de

Descriptio Oil on canvas. A version most likely from the Spanish master’s workshop. The composition bears similarities to the one preserved in the El Escorial Palace (Madrid) and was executed around 1640. Due to the poor condition of the work in El Escorial, scholars have some doubts about its authenticity. The best-preserved areas contain elements characteristic of Ribera’s work, but documentation on the image is somewhat contradictory. In the inventory compiled after the death of Charles II, a similarly sized image appears that could be this painting, but there is no documentary evidence to confirm this hypothesis. The artist has placed the Virgin and Child in the center of the composition while shepherds adore Jesus on either side, forming a circle. All have been executed in a naturalistic style, and their gestures and expressions, taken from working-class models, are particularly striking. Saint Joseph is also executed in a naturalistic style, while the Virgin, Child, and choir of angels in the upper section are more idealized and classicist. The lighting used is inspired by tenebrism, although in the background a cloudy sky can be seen with a sunset similar to that of San Juan Bautista. Framed dimensions: 267 x 174 cm, canvas dimensions: 254 x 159 cm Due to its age and history of use, this lot may show signs of wear and previous interventions. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, no specialized technical testing has been performed. The absence of any mention of restorations does not guarantee that none exist. You may request additional information before placing a bid. This does not affect the buyer’s statutory rights.

Estimation:€50,000

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