18th-Century Cusco School, Santiago Matamoros

18th-Century Cusco School, Santiago MatamorosThis 18th century Peruvian oil painting depicts James Matamoros, the former Patron Saint of Spain, holding a sword and cross while riding a white horse. From 1532, Cusco, Peru, became a Spanish colony and the church sought to convert the indigenous population with art a vital component. Hence, Cusco School works are quite fascinating as they blend traditional iconography with local Peruvian beliefs. The result is a varied array of unusual portrayals

Friswell probably completed this during his time in Suffolk

Her head is bowed while the son’s hands are clasped

Is she symbolic of a woman trapped within the confines of an unhappy marriage

While an older lady

The details are exquisite - note the attention to detail on the beautiful embroidered lace and resting hands

Edward John Cobbett (1815–1899)

Vickers was self-taught and exhibited 125 pieces at the Royal Academy

Merchants flooded in from overseas and created a buoyant economy perfect for the arts

trimmed with Brussels lace

unscrupulous activity aside

We particularly love the contrast between the rugged scenery in the foreground and the stillness of the figure

1920Provenance: SwedenCondition: Very good with no significant issues