17th century Spanish school

Spanish school of the 17th century.
Pair of torch-bearing angels.
Sculptures carved in wood, polychrome and gilded details.
Measurements: 83 x 43 x 55 cm. each one.

Admirable pair of torch angels of baroque period, executed in carved wood, polychromed and with rich golden details. They are two sculptures conceived practically of round bulk, although their refinement is concentrated in the frontal vision, revealing their original function of flanking an altar or an altarpiece.

The pieces represent two graceful youthful figures, with cherubic faces, whose bodies are wrapped in tunics of classical inspiration. These garments, elegantly knotted at the waist, generate a movement of great plasticity through deep and naturalistic draping. Both figures open their arms in an offering attitude to hold the light supports (today absent).

Stylistically, they belong to the purest line of Spanish baroque classicism. They present a dynamic and naturalistic composition; although they are pairs, the author avoids specular repetition, giving each figure an individuality of its own in its gestures and slight contrapposto, which notably enriches the dialogue between the two.

The quality of the carving is superb, typical of a first class workshop. This can be appreciated in the resolution of the anatomies (hands, knees and calves sheathed in gaiters) and in the serene liveliness of their faces, defined by large almond-shaped eyes and finely outlined lips.

Both for their formal balance between naturalism and ideal beauty, and for the serene treatment of the expressions, these works are convincingly linked to the Sevillian school of the first third of the 17th century, showing the powerful influence of the models imposed by the circle of Juan Martínez Montañés.