Follower of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

Stephen Ram Esq., No. 17  (according to a label on the reverse of the frame);
Sir Howard Kerr, Melbourne;
Acquired at his sale by the present owner.

The composition derives, with some differences, from Murillo's original in the collection of the Earls of Wemyss and March, Gosford House, Longniddry, (see D. Angulo Iñiguez, Murillo, Madrid 1981, vol. II, pp. 255-5, cat. no. 294, reproduced vol. III, plate 352), a related sketch for which was sold London, Sotheby's, 13 December 2001, lot 59.

Saint Felix of Cantalicio (circa 1513 - 1587) was a member of the Capuchins, a branch of the Franciscan Order, and in the present work is seen wearing the traditional capuchon - a habit with a pointed hood from the Order's name derives. According to legend he received a loaf from a child who shone with a mysterious radiance, blessed him and vanished.