#20 • Copper Casting of Justin Mathieu Relief "Adoration of the Magi" in Custom Frame

Part of Art Auction Spectacular: Original Paintings, Lithographs and Prints from Vintage to Modern (timed auction by Lux Auctions)

High bid $80.00

Status: Sold

Category: Art

This piece is a metal (likely copper) casting of a relief by French sculptor Justin Mathieu (1796-1864). The art piece is lightweight and detailed, a dimensional sculpture centering on the Virgin Mary, Baby Jesus and Joseph receiving gifts from the Wisemen, but also expanding to include many other peoples and animals in an intricate and complex tableau. The cast is unsigned, but when removed from the custom frame, the mark 1621 was etched into the border. The casting rests in a hand-made frame, carefully fit to support it on all sides. A surround of deep green velvet pads the front. The frame itself is of a pecan-stained wood, and has a wire in back to hang by. Very good condition with no dents. One fine crack, difficult to see, in the top of the piece. It is structurally sound and well supported. Please see all photos for additional details. Dimensions: Frame is 18.5" wide x 14.25" tall, Oval art opening is 12.5" w x 8.25" tall. Justin Mathieu (1796-1864) specialized in reliefs on historical and religious subjects, many of which were shown in Parisian salons from 1846 to 1864. His virtuoso, multi-figure compositions in small-format reliefs, executed in various materials, were very popular and aimed at customers of the wealthy middle class. In "The Adoration of the Magi", Mathieu draws on the style of the Nordic Renaissance of the 16th century in order to expand the events magnificently. The "Mary with the Child" image forms the calm center of the composition, in front of which the kings lay their gifts. A ruin forms the scene of worship, as has been customary in iconography since the 15th century.