St. James the Apostle. Flemish School. Frans Francken’s Studio. 17th Century

Superb painting of Santiago Apostle from the Flemish School, original of the studio of Frans Francken and painted in the 17th century. This work of art is an oil on copper, painted in a beautiful color array with a loose and precise stroke which reveals the hand of an accomplished artist. The scene is quite original as it combines two different Christian iconographies. St. James the Apostle, also known as St. James the Eldest, is lying on the ground; we can identify him for his attributes (the pilgrims hat, the cane and the cucumber). Nevertheless, the depicted scene is commonly known as Jacobs Ladder (Genesis, 28, 11-19). It features Jacob dreaming of a ladder which reaches Heaven, with the angels going up and down and God at the top. The artist mixes both themes in order to depict the message which St. James received from God, telling him to predicate the Gospels. He did so until his death in Jerusalem by order of Herod Agrippa I. The scene is beautiful: the cloudy sky shows a delicate color palette which suggests a dawn, flanked by dark trees which make a fine contrast. The ladder is in the center, painted with light colors and the use of sfumato technique which generates a powerful spirituality. The Apostle is dressed in bright colors and shows a highly earthly image which makes a great contrast with the subtle heavenly world. The painting is mounted on a fine gilt carved frame which enhances its attractive. This oil painting of St. James the Apostle from the Flemish School, original from Frans Franckens studio, is a unique work of art worthy of the best museum. Dimensions: Oil without Frame: Width: 6.3 in / 16 cm. Height: 8.58 in / 21.8 cm. Frame: Width: 8.86 in / 22.5 cm. Height: 11 in / 28 cm. "IMPORTANT: In order to export antique artwork outside of Spain, it is necessary to apply for a special art export permit that is processed by the Spanish Ministry of Culture. These permits can take between 2 and 6 weeks, after which time it can be exported as antique artwork. Keep this in mind when purchasing."