Mary Magdalene in a Garland of Flowers

Mary Magdalene in a Garland of Flowers Mario Nuzzi known as "Mario de' Fiori" (Penna San Giovanni, January 19, 1603 – Rome, November 14, 1673) Oil on canvas Second half of the 17th century Canvas cm. 71 x 55 Frame cm. 98 x 82 Excellent condition This splendid composition depicting Mary Magdalene surrounded by a garland of flowers is to be attributed to the renowned floral still-life painter Mario Nuzzi (Penna 1603 - Rome 1673), nicknamed "Mario de' Fiori" for his skill in depicting a wide variety of botanical species on his canvases in the typical style of his Flemish contemporaries. In addition to the meticulous observation of floral types, the Author distinguishes himself by his ability to capture the effects of light, highlighted by the use of an always completely dark background, still tied to Caravaggio's lesson. The work published here perfectly expresses his art and is part of a series of paintings that feature sacred images within a lavish garland of multicolored flowers. Nuzzi and his workshop, following the considerable success of a subject that had the prerogative of uniting the Sacred and the Profane, produced a varied series of works depicting Madonnas, Saints, Nativities, and other Sacred Scenes within floral garlands. The Noble Families of Rome, who constituted a large part of his clientele, found this artistic combination imported from the Flemish Masters very interesting, and easier to place than traditional Sacred Paintings. It is worth noting in this case, besides the beautiful garland that amazes with its countless succession of petals and corollas, also the quality of the central painting executed with great finesse and rich in details. The Magdalene is lying in a dark cave and is struck by light coming from a luminous landscape. Above her, a group of cherubs play and sing praises to the Lord. The skull and the holy scriptures are next to the attractive Penitent Sinner, testifying to her repentance. The canvas is in excellent condition and is presented in an important, antique, gilded frame of considerable thickness. Price negotiable - Personalized payment We issue a stamped and signed certificate of authenticity guaranteeing the period, provenance, and all characteristics of the work, drawn up by an antiquarian affiliated with FIMA (ITALIAN FEDERATION OF ART MERCHANTS). Delivery in Italy and throughout Europe within 3 days of receipt of the bank transfer. Shipping is tracked and insured and travels with careful shockproof packaging inside a custom-made wooden crate.