When looking at reproductions of paintings it is not always easy to gauge the scale of the work. This four hundred year old oil painting on copper is tiny, measuring just 28cm high.
Religious
The Apotheosis of Princess Charlotte Augusta, Princess of Wales (1796-1817) by Henry Howard, RA
Princess Charlotte Augusta of Wales was the only child of George, Prince of Wales (later to become King George IV) and Caroline of Brunswick. If she had outlived both her grandfather, King George III, and her father, she would have become Queen of the United Kingdom, but tragically she died following childbirth on 6 November 1817 aged just 21.
Kitchen Interior with Christ in the House of Mary and Martha by Cornelis Engelszen (1574-1650)
At first glance this intriguing painting appears to concern itself primarily with the presentation of food. The artist has depicted a range of wholesome foodstuffs along the front of the canvas, tantalizingly framed against various backdrops.
Madonna and Child with Saints Catherine, Nicholas and Francis by Vincenzo Catena (c.1470–1531)
Christmas is the one time of year when busy families make the time to come together, to share stories, food and gifts and to reconnect as a loving unit. This is quality time is which is all the more important when there have been new arrivals to the family. During an often frantic period, this painting from the early sixteenth century can still offer a few moments of calmness and reflection. It reminds us of the importance in spending time with one’s children and in making time to visit one’s extended family and friends. But it also prompts us to remember the religious significance of Christmas and how we should strive to be generous of our time and resources to others.
Elijah in the Wilderness by Frederic Leighton (1830-1896)
In 1877 the successful businessman and philanthropist Sir Andrew Barclay Walker spent what would be in today’s money millions of pounds establishing an Art Gallery in Liverpool.
Today art lovers continue to be attracted to the remarkable collection held in the Walker Gallery, much of which has been donated by generous benefactors following in the tradition of its founder. This painting is one such example. Frederic Leighton was one of the best known and most respected artists working in the late-Victorian period, but his work was not represented in the gallery’s collection. A local man and successful chemist named Andrew Kurtz commissioned Elijah in the Wilderness directly from Frederic Leighton after a visit to his studio in Holland Park, especially to commemorate the opening of the Walker Gallery. (more…)
The Madonna and Child with St Anne by after Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617 – 1682)
The hard work and devotion of mothers everywhere is celebrated on Mothering Sunday which this year falls in March. Although it is now often referred to by the American name of Mothers’ Day, Mothering Sunday has its origins within a very different tradition.
Centuries ago, people would return to their home or ‘mother’ church annually, on Mothering Sunday. This developed into a tradition whereby children, mainly daughters, who had gone to work as domestic servants were given time off to visit their mother and family. (more…)
Mary of Magdela (Startled in a wood) (1856-1935)
Mary of Magdela, Startled in a Wood was painted in 1893 by Herbert Gustave Schmalz.
It is one of several of his works that portray the resurrection of Jesus. Mary Magdalene was the first person to see Jesus after his resurrection and that moment is captured beautifully here.
Michael Escolme 