17th century Bolognese school

17th century Bolognese school.
"Virgin of the Rosary with Saints of the Dominican order".
Oil on copper.
Spanish frame of the XVIII century.
Measurements: 34 x 23 cm; 71 x 47 x 5 cm (frame).

In this copper one of the most outstanding episodes of the legend of Saint Dominic of Guzmán is represented, the appearance to the saint of the Virgin of the Rosary. The tradition, which began in the 15th century, tells that the Mother of God herself taught Saint Dominic to pray the rosary in 1208, telling him to propagate this devotion and to use it as a powerful weapon against the enemies of the faith. Appearing in the chapel where the saint was praying, holding a rosary in his hand, he taught him to recite it, promising that many sinners would be converted and obtain abundant graces. St. Dominic left there full of zeal, with the rosary in his hand. He did indeed preach it, and with great success, bringing many Albigensians back to the Catholic faith.