Saint John the Baptist, Tomaso Pombioli (Crema, 1579 – Crema, 1636)

Tomaso Pombioli (Crema, 1579 – Crema, 1636) Saint John the Baptist Oil on canvas 99 x 130 cm. - Framed 120 x 152 cm. Reference bibliography: M. Marubbi and C. Piastrella, L'estro e la realtà. Painting in Crema in the 17th century, Milan 1997, pp. 64-87 Full details of the work (click HERE) The high-quality painting under examination is an eloquent emblem of the Baroque style, which combines technical mastery, dramatic lighting, and emotional depth, in an image of great visual and symbolic impact, depicting Saint John the Baptist, an iconic figure of profound spirituality and devotion. The ascetic figure of the Saint, reclined in a wild and isolated landscape, is completed by his two canonical attributes, namely the lamb, a Christological symbol par excellence, and the shepherd's staff with the cartouche, iconographic elements that enrich the work with a profound theological meaning, making it particularly evocative. Great pictorial intensity has been reserved for the rendering of the figure. The body exhibits defined musculature that expresses strength and austerity, as well as the expression of the face that conveys deep contemplation and spirituality. The skillful use of light and shadow enhances the volumes and creates a suggestive atmosphere, while the palette of colors, dominated by earthy tones that then explodes into the vibrant red of the cloak, gives depth and drama. This painting is therefore not only a work of art, but a window into a moment of reflection and spiritual connection, capable of enriching any environment with its imposing presence and its eternal message. Ideal for collectors and lovers of sacred art, it offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of artistic history of strong inspiration. The painting is attributable to a skilled painter of the Lombard school active in the first half of the 17th century, and in particular, shows the main characteristics of the production of Tomaso Pombioli, the major exponent of the painting school in Crema in the 17th century, from the composition to the palette, with a tone of colors halfway between the Cremonese and Venetian tradition, and the composition with the insertion of the landscape on the right, also a Venetian reminiscence. Typical of the master is in particular the rendering, lucid and wet, of the face of Saint John: his expression, with languid eyes turned upwards with an air of contemplation, adds an element of pathos and spirituality, which even today as in the past aims to arouse intense emotional reactions in the viewer. In this regard, by way of example, we can mention one of the painter's most famous paintings which, although of a profane nature, fully incorporates the elements just illustrated: it is the Portrait of a musician with guitar, now at the Accademia Tadini Gallery in Bergamo (https://www.lombardiabeniculturali.it/opere-arte/schede/S0010-00132/ ) SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The work is sold complete with a pleasant golden frame and a certificate of authenticity and descriptive iconographic sheet. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to see the painting in the Riva del Garda gallery, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works. Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information. Also follow us on: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/