Italian School Icon

(possibly 16th century or earlier)Madonna Hodegetria, after the 4th century Salus Populi Romani icon held by the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, Rome, oil on canvas laid on board, 22 x 14-3/8 in.; 16th century style wooden frame, 22-1/5 x 16-3/4 in. - Note: The composition of this painting is derived from the icon of Salus Populi Romani in the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome. The legend surrounding the icon originates with St. Luke the Evangelist, who was said to have painted the Virgin from life. The name, meaning "Health (or Salvation) of the Roman People", was adopted after it was brought by St. Helena in the 4th century to Rome where it was credited with a miraculous delivery of the city from the plague in the 6th century. - Provenance: Private Collection, Greenville, North Carolina
Condition Report: crackle, cupping cleavage, flaking, craquelure, surface dirt, abrasions, buckling at top, repairs at Christ figure, areas of retouch; frame with loss at bottom, wear to finish