Italian school (XVII) - Santa Maria Maddalena Penitente

Ancient painting, oil on canvas, depicting Saint Mary Magdalene penitent, attributable to the Italian School of the XVII century (Seicento). The work fully integrates into the rich Baroque iconographic tradition devoted to the Saint, represented in her hermetic retreat and profound mystical devotion. Iconography and Style: The figure is portrayed with a gaze intensely directed toward the sky and glistening eyes, symbolizing repentance and spiritual ecstasy. Her long loose hair partially covers the shoulders, renouncing earthly vanity. In the foreground, at the bottom, the two main iconographic attributes of the Saint are clearly distinguished: The skull, a powerful symbol of vanitas and meditation on the transience of life. The vessel of unguents (pisside) on the right, a reference to the Gospel episode. The painting is notable for a marked use of chiaroscuro and a strong light-dark contrast typical of a Caravaggesque composition, which makes the figure emerge from the darkness of the background. Dimensions of the canvas: Height: 72 cm; Width: 64 cm

Estimate:$897.38

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