"The Triumph of Christianity"
Likely a project for a large-scale work
Francesco Solimena, known as Abbot Ciccio
(Canale di Serino, October 4, 1657 – Barra, April 5, 1747)
Oil on canvas
Late 17th century
Dimensions cm. 100 x 125
Excellent condition
The painting has been restored, cleaned, and relined.
This magnificent canvas is a demonstration of the Author's skill, who with quick and precise brushstrokes describes a spectacular allegorical composition with incredible scenic impact.
The upper part of the painting depicts the cornerstones of the Christian religion.
In the center at the top, God the Father thrones with Christ on his right holding the Cross, supported by a multitude of Angels. To his left, the Virgin with the Apostles and Pope Gregory the Great, creator of the Papal State and the temporal power of the Church.
At the center of the scene is highlighted the figure of Saint Benedict with the raven holding in its beak the poisoned bread.
In the lower part of the painting are depicted the images of the main Gods venerated in antiquity.
Jupiter is lying naked with his wife and sister Juno beside him, and further to the side his daughter Minerva with Neptune.
The extraordinary effectiveness in the use of color, the expressive power of the scene, and the very personal theatricality in the movements of the protagonists, are characteristics that distinguish the always splendid compositions rich in characters created by the great Neapolitan Master and his famous workshop.
It is very likely that this canvas represents the preparatory sketch for the realization of an important large-scale work.
The rarity of the subject, the quality of the painting, and the ideal size of the canvas make this work very pleasant and of great charm.
We issue a FIMA certificate of authenticity and a detailed descriptive sheet.
Tracked shipping (DHL TRACKING) and fully insured with anti-shock packaging in a custom-made wooden crate.
Delivery within 3 working days from receipt of payment.
Negotiable price and customized payment.
All the details of the painting are published on the private website:
https://www.antichitaischia.it/it/prodotto/il-trionfo-del-cristianesimo-
