This painting of impressive solemnity, painted around 1790, depicts Saint Eligius, Bishop of Noyon and patron saint of goldsmiths, blacksmiths, and metalworkers.
Of monumental dimensions (171 × 89 cm), this oil on canvas comes from the venerable Cistercian Abbey of Bonnefontaine, founded in 1152 in the French Ardennes under the impetus of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux.

A Survivor of the French Revolution

This exceptional work has spanned centuries and survived the French Revolution. While many religious works were destroyed, this one was hidden by the monks of the abbey, thus escaping desecration and preserving a rare fragment of French sacred heritage.
Today, it embodies the faith, perseverance, and transcendent beauty of religious art from the Ancien Régime.

Saint Eligius, the Master Goldsmith who became Bishop

Saint Eligius, born near Limoges around 588, was a brilliant goldsmith in the service of King Dagobert before being appointed Bishop of Noyon.
On the canvas, he appears in majesty: dressed in a blue and gold cope, holding the book of Gospels and his pastoral staff.
At his feet, the anvil, hammer, horseshoe, and golden scepter recall his art and his integrity.
Around him, light rises in an atmosphere of fervor, where two angels hover above the saint, as bearers of his divine mission.

A Work of History and Spirituality

This painting is not just a painting: it is a living fragment of French religious history, a museum piece that connects the contemporary gaze to the grandeur of the 18th century.
It will naturally find its place in an old house, a chapel, or a collection dedicated to sacred works.

Details

• Period: circa 1790

• Provenance: Bonnefontaine Abbey, Ardennes

• Technique: oil on canvas (mounted on panel)

• Dimensions: height 171 cm / width 89 cm (67.3’’ × 35’’)

• Condition: traces of time, small old restorations, but overall good presentation.

• Certificate of authenticity provided.

• Professional and secure delivery.

*For this item, delivery is included in France, Belgium & Luxembourg only by carrier, within 2 to 6 weeks depending on schedule. For other countries, do not hesitate to request a quote by e-mail at