Description
The painting "El niño San Juan Bautista y el niño Jesús" by the Spanish artist José Antolínez, is a work that stands out for its baroque style and its balanced and harmonious composition. The work, measuring 56 x 83 cm, presents the two children in an intimate and emotional scene, in which the little Saint John the Baptist holds a cross and looks tenderly at the baby Jesus.
The artistic style of the work is typical of the Spanish Baroque, with a strong influence from the Sevillian school. Antolínez's technique is precise and detailed, with a great ability to capture light and the details of fabrics and objects. The composition of the work is balanced and harmonious, with the two children in the center of the scene and surrounded by symbolic elements, such as the cross and the lamb.
The coloring of the work is soft and delicate, with pastel tones that create an atmosphere of serenity and peace. The pink and gold tones of the fabrics and objects contrast with the dark background, creating an effect of depth and realism.
The history of the painting is interesting, since it is known that it was commissioned by the convent of San Francisco de Asís in Madrid in the 17th century. The work was part of the Museo del Prado collection until it was stolen in 1918 and was never recovered. The work is currently believed to be in a private collection.
Little-known aspects of the work include its possible religious symbolism, as the cross held by Saint John the Baptist could represent his future role as a forerunner of Jesus, while the lamb symbolizes Christ's innocence and purity. It is also known that Antolínez was a highly respected painter in his time and that his work influenced many later artists.
In summary, "The Child Saint John the Baptist and the Child Jesus" is an impressive work that stands out for its baroque style, its balanced composition and its soft and delicate colouring. The history of the painting and its possible religious symbolism make it a fascinating work that continues to captivate art lovers to this day.