The Testing of the Suitors of the Holy Virgin by James Tissot

The Testing of the Suitors of the Holy Virgin - James Tissot - Fine Art Oil Painting

Product Overview

Looking for fine art oil painting with real brushwork? The Testing of the Suitors of the Holy Virgin is reproduced by hand in oils on artist-grade canvas after James Tissot. The result is a piece of timeless oil painting wall decor that anchors a home office and rewards a closer look.

About the Artwork

L'épreuve des prétendants au mariage de la sainte Vierge
1886-1894
Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper
Brooklyn Museum, United States.

Drawing on a story from the apocryphal Protoevangelion of James, Tissot depicts the expectant mood in the Temple as eligible bachelors await the sign that will determine the identity of the Holy Virgin's betrothed.

In Tissot's image, the high priest emerges from an inner sanctuary into a richly appointed area with patterned rugs and marble columns to give each man a staff. Ranging in age from fresh-faced youths to white-bearded old men, the suitors look expectantly at the priest as he raises his hands to the heavens in prayer.

Reserving the conclusion of the episode for his commentary, Tissot recounts that when the reluctant suitor Joseph received his staff, a dove sprang forth and soared up to heaven, heralding the carpenter's role as earthly father to Jesus.

The young boy seen in profile in the right foreground makes frequent appearances throughout the chronological span of the narrative, from the Holy Childhood to the Passion, signaling the artist's interest in populating his images with quintessential ethnic "types" found in the region (see illustration). The boy's sidelong glance toward the picture plane and the vacant wedge in the left foreground of the scene, which suggests an unimpeded avenue of access, draw the viewer into the event, underscoring Tissot's aim to make his viewers witnesses to the narrative.

Our artists reproduce this fine art composition in oil on canvas by hand, preserving the tonal range that makes fine art oil painting so sought after for a home office.

100% Hand Painted on Canvas

This is a genuine hand painted oil painting, not a canvas print. Our painters match the palette of The Testing of the Suitors of the Holy Virgin by eye and build up the fine art forms in thin layers, which is what gives the finished fine art oil painting its luminosity.

What Is Included

• Genuine hand painted oil painting on premium artist canvas; no printing or digital imaging is used.
• An extra 2-inch blank border is left around all edges for easy stretching and framing.
• No middlemen — we ship directly to you worldwide.
• Available canvas sizes for this hand painted oil painting: 30 X 40 in, 36 X 48 in, 48 X 72 in.
• Any size you need can be produced — just tell us your preferred dimensions.
• Multiple low-cost carriers available, including DHL, UPS, FedEx and USPS.
• Free professional stretching on wooden stretcher bars — contact us for framing options.
• You will receive a photo of your completed painting by email for sign-off prior to shipping.

Wall Decor & Gifting

Hang this fine art oil painting above a sofa, console, or bed to give a home office an instant focal point. Its timeless palette works with both minimalist and period interiors, and the piece also makes a considered gift for housewarmings, weddings, and art lovers.

Shipping & Guarantee