This beautiful artifact is an antique hand-colored religious engraving from the 18th century, depicting a Catholic holy card (often called a canivet or devotional print). The piece features "Sancta Ioanna" (Saint Joan / Saint Jane). Signed in the bottom right corner as "F. Huberti", referencing the notable Huberti family of engravers and publishers active in Antwerp. Franciscus Huberti (1630–1687) is highly regarded by historians as one of the pioneers of rhymed prayer cards in Flanders. Pieces clearly attributable to him are quite collectible among specialized ecclesiastical art dealers.
This is a classic example of late Baroque or Rococo ecclesiastical art. The design features elaborate scrollwork, lush floral garlands at the base, and celestial motifs. A crowned saint sits centrally under a heavenly beam of light, surrounded by multiple putti (cherubs) and angelic figures. A kneeling child or devotee reaches toward her hand, set against an architectural background.
The backside reads as follows -
"Nous soussignés attestons que Jeanne
[Olivier?] a fait sa première communion dans
l'église de St. [Symphorien] d'Avignon, le
dimanche de Quasimodo, 22 avril 1770.
En foi de quoi, nous lui avons donné la présente image."
Translated, it says -
"We, the undersigned, certify that Jeanne [Olivier] made her first communion in the church of St. [Symphorien] of Avignon, on Quasimodo Sunday, April 22, 1770. In witness whereof, we have given her this present image.
The paper shows natural aging and edge wear common for prints of this era. To protect the hand-painted watercolor accents and fragile paper fibers, keep this piece framed under UV-protective glass and away from direct sunlight or humid environments.
The engraving measures 5.25" x 3.75". Please email me with questions.
