Abraão Adora os Três Anjos 1799

This panel, titled "Abraão Adora os Três Anjos," or "Abraham Adoring the Three Angels," was painted by Mestre Ataíde in Brazil. Ataíde, born in the mid-18th century, worked with humble materials, painting directly onto wood planks. The wood grain is visible beneath the paint, contributing to the panel's texture and visual interest. The artist applied layers of pigments to create depth and luminosity, though now, after many years, the colours have faded and shifted. Ataíde was a master of trompe l'oeil, creating the illusion of three-dimensionality, and baroque forms, despite working on a flat surface. He was part of a generation of Brazilian artists who synthesized European techniques with local materials and cultural sensibilities, creating a unique artistic identity. The choice of wood as a support material reflects the availability of resources and the traditions of local craftsmanship. Ataíde's work exemplifies how artists can transform everyday materials into objects of beauty and spiritual significance, challenging conventional notions of art and craft.