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EDUARD JAKOB VON STEINLE (1810-86)
Saint Luke painting the Virgin
Signed and dated 1851RCIN 408952
According to early Christian legend, St Luke painted a portrait of the Virgin Mary and thereafter was honoured as patron saint of artists. The face of the Evangelist is deeply modelled and lifelike in contrast to that of the Virgin Mary, whose pose and ivory skin are reminiscent of a statue. The Christ child holds a red carnation, a symbol of the crucifixion.
Purchased by Prince Albert and presented to Queen Victoria on her birthday, 24 May 1851
No. 59
