Antique 17th Century French Painting on Copper Panel "Mary and Joseph Enter Bethlehem"

A beautiful and poignant depicting of Luke 2:1-5, it is richly painted on a copper panel. The painting dates circa 1680. (The very plain wooden frame is of a much later date).

Using a copper panel as a canvas was widely popular beginning in 1500 with Flemish artists. Copper also served as an engraving plate for etchings and prints by master artists such as Rembrandt.This type of panel was often a commission for a private home. The artists would travel from village to village and paint particular scenes or passages from the Bible. The paintings would have had a place of honor in a devotional space.

The details of each figure speak volumes. Mary, looks at her husband, with an expression of weariness from their long journey. She rests her hand on her stomach expressing fatigue and anticipation of the imminate birth. The donkey hangs it's head. Joseph has a look of concern and determination in transporting the expectant Madonna to a place of rest. The gentleman of the village points as if giving advice as to a place to stay. A woman who appears to be his wife stands in the doorway. The figures are well placed in the scene. The rich hues of crimson and royal blue are lovely against the otherwise neutral palate.

The frame measures 9 3/4" x 8 1/8". The inner portion measures 1 3/8" wide. The copper panel has been backed by a plain wooden plank. It measures: 5 3/8 x 6 7/8". The painting is in very good antique condition.

It is a precious rendering of a beloved Bible story. It is a superb late 17th century work of devotional art.