Baroque Altarpiece Fragments, Spain, 18th Century, Set of 2

Impressive pair of fragments of a Spanish baroque altarpiece from the end of the 18th century. These are two magnificent pieces of large dimensions, carved all over their front with vegetal elements that tend to form spirals and with large rockeries in high relief. The entire visible surface is gilded with gold leaf, with small later retouches barely visible.

They come from the church of San Benito el Real in Valladolid, from one of its minor chapels, and later passed to a private collection, which acquired them directly from the funds of the Archbishopric; according to the testimony of the owners. They were used as bed headboards, although these exquisite pieces allow a great number of approaches, as well as their simple exhibition is spectacular.

The church of San Benito el Real, of the Benedictine order, was erected in Gothic style over the old Alcázar Real of Valladolid, following the plans of Juan de Arandia y García de Olave. Its façade was designed by Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón, although the portico and tower are later. The greatest treasure it housed inside was precisely the main altarpiece, in addition to the choir stalls, the work of Andrés de Nájera in Plateresque style. After the disentailment of Mendizábal in 1835, the monastery was transformed into barracks, closing the church, which was stripped of the works of art it possessed.