TABLEAU

Oil on canvas depicting a scene from the Stations of the Cross, probably the Third Station: Jesus falls for the first time. The Christ, haloed and crowned with thorns, collapses under the weight of the cross. His body, draped in a pink cloak, expresses abandonment and suffering. Beside him, Simon of Cyrene appears to assist him while armed Roman soldiers flank the scene. The composition is dynamic, organised around the powerful diagonal formed by the cross. The treatment of the figures is clear and academic, with well-defined volumes and a vibrant palette typical of religious works from the late 18th century and early 19th century. The sober, mountainous landscape background enhances the depth while allowing the characters to take precedence. Oil on canvas, vertical format 80 X 58 cm, canvas mounted on a wooden frame, old blackened wooden frame with a gilded inner fillet. Workshop work from a European school (probably French or Italian) intended for private devotion or a parish collection. Natural cracks due to age, some wear and possible minor old restorations, generally good structural condition, frame showing signs of use consistent with age. A sound and decorative work, immediately presentable.