Franz Ittenbach, The Virgin at Prayer Signed and dated lower right: F. Ittenbach 1868 In the original frame In this work, the half-figure depiction of the young Virgin Mary in prayer, finely painted in oils, stands out against a richly embossed and engraved gold ground panel - around her head a nimbus with the inscription "Sancta Maria virgo". Her hands folded, she looks up to heaven. Her richly decorated robe, embroidered with pearls and gemstones, the delicately draped pink fabric, her finely curled hair and her porcelain-like skin are masterfully painted. An almost identical work by Ittenbach, dated four years earlier, was sold at auction by Van Ham in Cologne on 14th May 2010. This panel is still housed in its original frame, the ornamentation of which corresponds iconographically to the depiction of Mary. The work is dated 22nd July 1869 to either side of the Eucharistic chalice in the top centre. The chalice is surrounded by a border of thistles and branches which run around the entire length of the frame. In Christian iconography, the Eucharistic chalice and the thistle are both allusions to the suffering of Christ. Oil on panel 34.7 x 30.5 cm German private ownership.