The Art Institute of Chicago
Triptych
Description
Although Orthodox Christianity has been practiced in the highlands of Ethiopia since the 4th century, this elaborate triptych is rendered in the courtly First Gonderine style, which flourished during the reign of King Iyyasu I (1682–1706) and incorporated bold, richly decorated forms and figures. With its central panel featuring the Virgin Mary and child Jesus flanked by archangels Gabriel and Michael, this icon reflects the popularity of Marian worship within the Ethiopian liturgy.
Provenance
Mr. Vesecchi, Milan, Italy [this and the following according to A. Mitrano communicated by Sam Fogg Oct. 24, 2005, documented in curatorial file; and S. Fogg 2005 and 2014]; Mr. Vesecchi and Mrs. Mitrano (died 1997), Milan, Italy; by descent to her son, Andrea Mitrano, Varese, Italy, from 1997 [owner recorded on export documentation Feb. 2005, copy in curatorial file]; sold to Sam Fogg, London, 2005 [copy of export documentation signed by A. Mitrano dated Feb. 2005 in curatorial file; Fogg, 2005, pp. 62-63 ]; sold to the Art Institute, 2006.
Dimensions
67 × 74 cm (26 3/8 × 29 1/8 in.)
Movement / Period
Accession No
185651
Official Citations
Curatorial Affinity Stream
Continuing the Universe of Central Ethiopia Eastern and Southern Africa
gondar • Ethiopia • Harmonious Works & Contemporaries
Continuous Discovery