REST DURING THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT - OIL ON CANVAS - 18TH CENTURY
Description:
Technical and Descriptive Sheet
Object
Oil painting on canvas depicting "The Rest during the Flight into Egypt with the Infant Saint John and the Lamb".
Period and Context
18th Century (mid-1700s). The work reflects the Rococo sensibility, with stylistic references to Venetian painting (for the use of color and light) or French (for the grace of the faces and the movement of the garments).
Iconographic Description
The work is distinguished by a decentralized pyramidal composition and a strong sense of movement. In the center, the Virgin is captured in a dynamic gesture, with her purple mantle puffed out by the wind, as she turns a caring gaze towards the Child. The latter is lying on a lamb (symbol of the Agnus Dei), with one arm reaching upwards in a gesture of joyful vitality.
At the foot of the main scene lies the infant Saint John, recognizable by the wooden cross on the ground, engaged in playing with some fruit. In the background, in a protective semi-darkness, emerges the figure of Saint Joseph, who seems to watch over the scene, indicating the direction of their journey. The landscape is characterized by a steep cliff and wind-blown trees, rendered with rapid, fringed brushstrokes typical of eighteenth-century painting.
Stylistic Analysis
Color palette: The palette is rich and vibrant. The contrast between the cerulean blue of the Madonna's robe, the lake red of the Child's drapery, and the ochre of the landscapes stands out.
Light: The lighting is theatrical, with a light source striking the protagonists diagonally, leaving the background in chiaroscuro, which lends depth and mystery to the scene.
Technique: The brushwork appears confident, with skillful use of glazes for the flesh tones and touches of lead white to define the folds of the fabrics and the reflection on the leaves.
Dimensions: 94 x 108 cm including frame, 75 x 91 cm canvas.
Condition
The canvas shows the characteristic craquelure of the period, a sign of authenticity. It has been relined.
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