Juan Pedro López (Venezuela, 1724 - 1787)

18th-century Spanish Colonial School Attributed to Juan Pedro López (Caracas, Venezuela, 1724 - 1787) Saint Michael the Archangel Oil on canvas 91 x 69 - Framed 105 x 85 cm The canvas depicts a splendid Saint Michael the Archangel subduing the demon, the work of a talented Spanish painter of the 18th century, distinguished by a distinctly Baroque language that is particularly solemn and spectacular. Named Prince of the Heavenly Hosts, the most powerful of the angels, he represents Good conquering Evil, trampling Satan to cast him back into the underworld. The composition presents a consolidated iconographic scheme, with Archangel Michael depicted as a youth of rare beauty who echoes the classical image of the warrior with a simple tunic and a feathered helmet on his head. Strong and delicate at the same time, with wings spread, he protects himself with an imposing shield, while raising the flaming sword ready to strike the blow of victory against the rebel angel. On the shield is the monogram of the Latin phrase 'Quis sicut Deus?' (literally "who is like God?"), a rhetorical question attributed to the Archangel Michael, leading the hosts of angels faithful to God, who uttered it as he hurled himself against the rebellious angels led by Lucifer, when the latter questioned the power of God. The painting, datable to the mid-18th century, should be placed within the rich Spanish colonial production, and precisely its stylistic features perfectly overlap with the works of the painter Juan Pedro López (Caracas, Venezuela, 1724 - 1787), a central figure in the development of colonial art, and considered one of the most important and acclaimed artists of the colonial period. As a painter, sculptor, and gilder, he illuminated the somber art of his time with the light and grace of Hispano-American Rococo. His work, based in particular on religious painting due to the commissions received, followed a style that largely derived from the aesthetics prevalent in Spain. After the conquest of America by the Europeans, new ranks of painting schools developed in the 'New Continent', with the aim of producing works to decorate the numerous churches that were being built everywhere, and the noble residences of the governors. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The painting is completed by a lacquered wood frame and is sold with a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet. We handle and organize the transport of purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. If the work is purchased by non-Italian customers, it will be necessary to obtain an export permit, which takes about 10/20 days. Our gallery will take care of the entire process until it is obtained. All costs of this procedure are included. Contact us for any information, we will be happy to answer you. Follow us also on: https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/