Artwork
Virgin of Pomata with St. Nicholas Tolentino and St. Rose of Lima
Virgin of Pomata with St. Nicholas Tolentino and St. Rose of Lima is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum. The work presents the Virgin of Pomata, clothed in white and crowned, cradling an infant child.
About this work
Overview
The work presents the Virgin of Pomata, clothed in white and crowned, cradling an infant child. She is encircled by floral motifs and a rosary, set against a darkened backdrop. At the lower edge, several figures are positioned, their gazes directed upward toward the central figure, conveying an atmosphere of reverence and devotion.
Subject & Meaning
The central theme focuses on the Marian figure of Pomata, a local devotional image, accompanied by the infant, symbolizing the mother-child relationship central to Catholic veneration. The surrounding flowers and rosary emphasize themes of purity and prayer, while the attentive onlookers below suggest communal worship and the intercessory role of the Virgin in the faithful’s spiritual life.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil on canvas, the painting employs a limited palette dominated by the luminous white of the Virgin’s garments against a deep, almost tenebristic background. The delicate rendering of the floral details and the subtle modeling of the figures demonstrate a careful handling of light to highlight the sanctified central figures while maintaining a sense of spatial depth.
History & Provenance
The piece is identified by its title as featuring the Virgin of Pomata together with Saint Nicholas Tolentino and Saint Rose of Lima, indicating a devotional commission likely intended for a chapel or private altar associated with these saints. No further documented ownership or exhibition history is provided in the available information.
Artist & collection
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