17th Century Antique Original Oil Painting on canvas Goddess And Cherub, Framed

This exquisite late 17th-century oil on canvas depicts a refined mythological scene, rendered with exceptional skill in the High Baroque tradition. A reclining nude female figure, partially draped in flowing vermilion silk, rests beside a sleeping cherub in a serene classical landscape. Above, a celestial figure emerges from swirling clouds, reaching down with a gesture that unites the earthly and the divine.

The artist’s mastery of chiaroscuro and delicate tonal transitions imbues the composition with both sensuality and reverence. The soft modeling of flesh tones, the lyrical folds of drapery, and the atmospheric treatment of sky and landscape echo the elegance of Simon Vouet, Carlo Maratti, and their circles.

Details:

• Medium: Oil on canvas, relined

• School: French or Italian, ca. 1670–1700

• Attribution: Circle of Vouet or follower of Carlo Maratti

• Signature: Unsigned

• Frame: Later vintage carved wood and gesso frame

📏 Measurements:

• Canvas: 23" x 18" (58.4 x 45.7 cm)

• Framed: 30.5" x 26.5" (77.5 x 67.3 cm)

✔️ Condition: In very good condition for its age. Canvas professionally relined; minor scattered retouching and areas of craquelure consistent with 17th-century works. Frame with light wear commensurate with age. Please refer to all detailed photos.

Historical Context & Subject:
This allegorical composition embodies the favored themes of late Mannerist and early Baroque painting — a reclining nude in a dynamic diagonal pose, accompanied by symbolic figures of love and divinity. Such works were popular among 17th-century patrons, often symbolizing divine intervention, beauty, and mortality.

Stretcher & Canvas Construction:
The reverse reveals a period stretcher with wedged joints, irregular fiber weave, oak or coniferous grain, and early forged nails — features consistent with 17th–early 18th-century construction. Darkened varnish and a network of craquelure further attest to the painting’s age.

Provenance: Private European collection.

This rare and atmospheric Old Master painting would be a distinguished addition to any serious collection of Baroque allegory and early European art.

Please note: Colors may vary slightly due to lighting, camera quality, and screen settings. We sell vintage and antique items, which may show signs of age such as craquelure, patina, scuffs, or retouching. These characteristics add authenticity and historical value to the artwork. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.