18th Century French Religious Painting The Kiss Of Judas Crucifixion C 1790

This wonderful religious painting was painted in France during the 18th century, circa 1790. The painting is one of a pair, each sold separately. The painting features a religious scene with a corresponding Litany. The painting is after a 17th century engraving by the engraver and printer François Mazot (see references below).

A Litany is a solemn, repetitive form of prayer used in religious services, consisting of a series of petitions or praises recited by a leader to which the congregation responds with a fixed, rhythmic refrain. The piece also features a corresponding religious painting. The litany is titled ‘Oscvlvm Altaris’.

The painting depicts the interior of the church with an altar at which a priest, assisted by an altar boy, is saying mass. There is a great deal of symbolism in the painting. The alter piece features the Crucifixion of Jesus and a cloud above appears as a dream, or the thought in which the reader has been asked to reflect. The scene features The kiss of Judas, also known as the Betrayal of Christ, in which Judas identified Jesus to the people to arrest him. Notice Peter drawing his sword.

The corresponding litany reads: ‘‘Le Prêtre baise l'autel. Jesus Christ est trahi par. Un baiser de judas.’ Notice how the ‘J’ are spelt with ‘I’s as the text is so old.

Reference: ‘Le Tableau de la Croix : representé dans les ceremonies de la Ste. Messe / ensemble la tresor de la devotion aux soufrances de Nre. S.I.C., le tout enrichi de belles figures’ by François Mazot pubished 1651/2.

The painting is housed behind glass in a decorative 19th century frame featuring the corresponding framers label for L. P. Burke & Co, 2 Bloomsbury Street, New Oxford Street, London.’

This is the perfect item for anyone who loves religious art and antiques!

Measuring: Frame width 7 1/8 inch (18 cm) by height 8 5/8 inch (22 cm). Aperture width 4 7/8 inch (12.5 cm) by height 6 ½ inch (16.5 cm).

Condition: Very good with light surface wear commensurate with age.

Item id:16430