Continental School,18th century, oil on canvas religious painting depicting Mary extending the infant Jesus to meet young John the Baptist, with woman and man, presumably St. Elizabeth and Joseph or Zachariah, watching on. A column, drape and partly cloudy sky are in the background. Antique, but possibly not original giltwood frame with laurel, acanthus, and ribbon molding. 24 1/2" x 21" sight, 31" x 35" framed. Note: this particular religious theme, of the Christ Child being introduced to John the Baptist (and often, members of his family) was explored by number of Renaissance and Baroque painters including Raphael, Rubens, Denis Calvaert, and Guido Reni and their followers. CONDITION: Relined with general craquelure overall, stretcher creases all four sides, and frame abrasions. 3"L. area of alligatoring in upper center on drape with inpainting. 3"L. area of inpainting between woman and man and 1 1/2"L area of inpainting on forehead of John the Baptist. Frame has been regilded.