Lot #28: Andean Colonial Oil on Canvas: Virgin & Child, Donor and Saint | Cuzco School | Circa 1780–1820

Historical Context & Origin Region: Andean Colonial, Peru (Cuzco or Upper Peru workshop) Material: Oil on canvas, laid to wooden panel; later gilt-and-black frame Period: Late 18th–Early 19th Century (ca. 1780–1820) Description A magnificent Andean Colonial Madonna and Child devotional oil painting from the renowned Cuzco School tradition. Depicting the crowned Virgin and Christ Child surrounded by angelic putti, the composition exemplifies the vivid Andean palette, baroque symbolism, and spiritual intensity that defined post-colonial South American art. Below, a kneeling pilgrim saint—possibly St. James (Santiago)—and a uniformed donor evoke the fusion of European iconography and local piety. The Virgin’s radiant nimbus and coral-and-gold highlights typify late-18th-century regional workshops. The canvas, later laid to panel, reflects traditional 19th-century conservation methods used throughout Peru and Bolivia. Features - Crowned Madonna and Child with radiant nimbus - Cherubic putti among luminous clouds - Pilgrim saint with rosary and staff - Uniformed donor holding halberd; colonial architecture in distance - Vivid Andean pigments and folk-baroque brushwork - Oil on canvas, laid to wooden panel; later gilt-and-black frame Cultural Significance The Escuela Cuzqueña united European Counter-Reformation ideals with Andean symbolism, producing spiritual masterpieces for churches and private devotion. Such paintings represented divine intercession, often commissioned by noble families or colonial militias—making this example both historically and culturally significant. Condition Stable with fine craquelure and light restoration from past conservation. Minor wear and toning consistent with age. Frame with gentle abrasions and small nicks. Age (Approximate) 205–245 years old Provenance From a private collection in Dania Beach, Florida, USA. Acquired in 2026. Dimensions: Width: 36 in x Height: 27.5 in Pickup category timeslot {A} Price Estimate: CAD 2500 - 4500 Ships from Toronto, ON. No local pickup. Buyer arranges shipping and insurance directly with seller after auction closes.