Large Painting of Saint Eligius – Oil on Canvas, 1790 – Provenance: Bonnefontaine Abbey

Majestic 18th-century religious painting depicting Saint Eligius, bishop and goldsmith. A painting from the period (1790) from Bonnefontaine Abbey, a survivor of the French Revolution.

We present an exceptional 18th-century work: a large oil on canvas dated 1790, depicting Saint Eligius, Bishop of Noyon and patron saint of goldsmiths, blacksmiths, and metalworkers.

This monumental painting (height 171 cm, width 89 cm) comes from the former Cistercian Abbey of Bonnefontaine, in the French Ardennes.

A historical witness to the Revolution
Created in 1790 in Grand Cléry, this painting has survived the centuries, miraculously escaping the destruction of the Revolution. While many religious works were confiscated or burned, this one was carefully hidden during the attacks on the abbey, thus preserving a precious fragment of French sacred heritage.

A masterful portrait of Saint Eligius
The saint is depicted in all his episcopal majesty, wearing his blue and gold cope, holding the Book of Gospels and his pastoral staff. At his feet are his traditional attributes: the anvil, hammer, horseshoe, and golden scepter, symbols of his goldsmithing skill and moral rectitude.

Above him, two angels emerge from the clouds, recalling his divine mission and the purity of his work.

A spiritual and artistic legacy
Born near Limoges around 588, Saint Eligius became goldsmith to King Dagobert before being appointed Bishop of Noyon. His exemplary life, integrity, and talent made him the patron saint of many manual and technical trades.

This painting perfectly illustrates this duality: the union of craftsmanship and faith.

Provenance and Condition

Provenance: Bonnefontaine Abbey, founded in 1152 by crusaders under the impetus of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux.

Date: circa 1790

Support: oil on canvas, mounted on a wooden panel

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

Condition: visible signs of age, minor wear and old restorations, but a pleasing overall impression.

A Museum Piece
This painting is not merely a work of art: it is a relic of French Christian memory, a tangible survival of a chapter in spiritual and artistic history.

It will naturally find its place in a private collection, a chapel, or a refined interior where ancient art engages in a dialogue with the fervor of the past.

Ref: CIHFAHO497