Neptune on the ocean waves
Workshop of Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known as Il Guercino (Cento, 1591 - Bologna, 1666)
Attributed to Ercole Gennari (Cento, 1597-Bologna, 1658)
Oil on canvas (138 x 112 cm. In frame 160 x 135 cm.)
The work is accompanied by a critical study by prof. Emilio Negro (Bologna, 2026)
The powerful mythological figure, the great God of the Sea Poseidon (the equivalent of Neptune in the Roman pantheon), stands statuesque, life-sized, depicted in three-quarter view amidst the waves of a coastal landscape, which we glimpse on the right with a castle perched on the shore.
While the upper part of the body twists to the left, the head turns its gaze in the opposite direction, downwards, towards a sea creature emerging from the waters, which he attempts to strike with his trident. In the left part of the image, the sea surface moves towards the horizon with a band of clouds faintly illuminated by an evening, almost nocturnal sky. The face is framed by flowing, slightly wavy hair, with a high forehead furrowed by wrinkles.
The theme is taken from Virgil's Aeneid (1, 124-143), the moment when Neptune emerges from the waters, furious because Aeolus, at Juno's instigation, had unleashed a storm to destroy Aeneas' fleet. The god, angered by Juno's intrusion into his domain, addresses the winds and begins a threat that he abruptly interrupts: "Quos ego..." (Whom I [will punish]...–), the phrase remains suspended because Neptune decides it is more urgent to calm the waters before proceeding with punishments.
[...click HERE for complete details]
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The work is sold complete with a gilded wooden frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet.
We handle and organize the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to view the painting at our gallery in Riva del Garda; we would be pleased to welcome you to show you our collection of works.
Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information.
Follow us also on:
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it
FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/
