Novo-Hispanic School. 18th century. Signed by... Lot n° 28

Novo-Hispanic School. 18th century. Signed by Francisco de Albala and dated 1768. "Saint Francis Xavier baptising Indians and infidels" Oil on canvas. 152 x 195 cm. In a clearly Italianate scenography, with lintels, columns, and perspectives, and a profusion of details and colour, the New Spanish author draws inspiration from an Italian or European painting, Flemish engraving, or print of the era to create his painting. Saint Francis Xavier, full of kindness and luminous mysticism, dressed in a tunic, surplice, and stole, under the blessing and light of the sky (an IHS hovers above him), baptises Indians and infidels. The vivid colours and light, very typical of Italian art of the time, stand out, as does the quality in the details of jewels, jugs, carpets, embroidered fabrics and brocades, and headdresses with feathers and ribbons, turbans, and brooches. In the lower left corner, a donor's cartouche is prominent (“MARIA SACHEN LISARDA LIT ADORADIÓ HESTE CUADRO LE DIO A. 1768”). This could refer to María Sánchez Lisarda.