Virgin Mary with Child, Baroque Devotional Engraving, Penzinger, c.1700

Virgin Mary with Child, Baroque Devotional Engraving, Penzinger, c.1700

This refined Baroque devotional engraving depicts the Virgin Mary tenderly embracing the Christ Child, set within a striking radiating star-shaped framework populated by numerous cherub heads emerging from clouds. The composition combines intimate Marian imagery with an elaborate symbolic structure, emphasizing Mary’s role as intercessor and spiritual focal point within Catholic devotion at the turn of the 18th century.

The central image of Maria mit Kind is rendered with gentle modeling and controlled chiaroscuro, highlighting the emotional bond between mother and child. Surrounding this intimate scene is a complex, strahlenförmige Einfassung, a radiating, multi-pointed frame inscribed with Latin devotional texts. These inscriptions draw from Marian theology and piety, reinforcing themes of mercy, intercession, and divine grace. The surrounding fields are densely filled with expressive angel heads, a hallmark of Baroque religious iconography intended to evoke the heavenly realm.

This engraving served as the frontispiece to Bonus ordo triplicis formatae by Penzinger, published around 1700. As a frontispiz, it was designed to introduce the spiritual and theological content of the book, functioning both as an illustrative summary and as a devotional image in its own right. Such prints were often preserved separately, framed, or collected for private contemplation.

The print comes from the collection of Erhard Oskar Kaps (Lugt 3549), adding a documented provenance of interest to collectors. Its modest scale enhances its intimacy, making it well suited for both scholarly collections of religious prints and decorative presentation in refined interiors with historical character.

Condition report:

Light overall browning consistent with age. Some scattered foxing and minor staining, typical for early 18th-century paper. Impression clear with strong engraved lines. Plate and margins intact.

Framing tips:

Recommend a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a warm ivory or soft parchment-toned mat. A slightly wider mat will emphasize the intricate border and protect the delicate paper. Museum or UV-protective glass advised for long-term preservation.

Technique: Copper engraving

Maker: Penzinger, Germany, circa 1700