Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Hippolyte de Colombier-en-Brionnais, located in the department of Saône-et-Loire in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, was rebuilt in the 19th century in a neo-flamboyant architectural style. This religious monument is distinguished by its nave flanked by collaterals and a deep choir extending the nave directly, in the absence of transept. Its bell tower houses an exceptional bell, melted in 1722 and weighing about 190 kg, classified historic monument in 2019.

The church furniture includes two side altars dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Hippolyte, patron saint of the parish. A major discovery was made there in 1986: a painting of the Annunciation, attributed to the brothers Le Nain after expertise. This 17th century canvas, classified as a historical monument in 1987, was restored and acquired by the Rolin Museum in Autun in 1988, where it is now on display.

The church, still dedicated to the Catholic cult, falls under the Diocese of Autun and the parish of Sainte-Marie-sous-Dun. It illustrates the local religious heritage, combining 19th century architecture and older historical elements, such as the 18th century bell.

The painting of the Annunciation, hidden and then authenticated, represents a rare example of the work of Mathieu Le Nain, active after the death of his brothers in 1648. His attribution was confirmed by experts from the Louvre Museum, highlighting the artistic importance of this discovery in a rural church.

The building, assigned to the parish of La Clayette according to the law of 1905, remains an active place of worship while sheltering remarkable heritage elements. The bell and the classified picture bear witness to its spiritual and historical role in the Brionnais region.

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