Scuola italiana (XVIII–XIX) - Cristo cade sotto il peso della Croce

Italian School, 18th–19th century “ Christ falls under the weight of the Cross ” Technique: oil on panel Measurements: panel 64 × 43.5 cm; with frame 84 × 62.5 cm Period: between the end of the 18th century and the first half of the 19th century Subject: episode of the Way of the Cross Inscriptions: on the reverse there is a handwritten inscription, partially legible, ending with the Latin formula «Pinxit». Identifying the name that precedes it requires further study. Description Interesting painting of Italian milieu depicting Christ fallen under the weight of the Cross, an episode belonging to the cycle of the Way of the Cross. The composition is built around the powerful diagonal of the cross, which traverses almost the entire scene and determines a marked theatrical division of space. In the foreground Christ, fallen to the ground, stands out thanks to the intense red of his garment and the luminous halo. Around him a convulsive group of male figures is arranged, engaged in supporting and dragging the cross. In the upper part the narration broadens with additional onlookers and with the presence of a horseman, silhouetted against a blue sky pierced by clouds. The characterization of the figures, the gestural emphasis, the taste for physiognomies and the scenographic setting reveal a pictorial culture still tied to the late eighteenth-century tradition, with openings toward the academic painting of the early nineteenth century. Particularly interesting for attribution study is the inscription on the reverse, where the term Pinxit (“painted”) is clearly recognizable, while the name that precedes it is currently difficult to interpret. Frame The work is presented within an important gilded wooden frame, of an eighteenth–nineteenth-century taste, characterized by a wide architectural moulding in several tiers and by an inner band with a geometric decorative motif. The gilding shows widespread abrasions, small losses and wear, particularly evident along the edges and at the bottom. These traces confer the frame with a coherently antique appearance. Frame to be considered an accessory element of the work. Condition report The work presents in general good to decent condition given its age. The painterly surface shows widespread and physiological craquelure, more perceptible in uniform areas and in the darker zones, as well as small marks, abrasions and minor losses compatible with the age of the artifact. Surface deposits and a general patina are visible. There may be retouchings and previous conservation interventions, not quantifiable. On the reverse there are marks, halos and traces consistent with the aging of the support, in addition to the aforementioned ancient handwritten inscription ending with «Pinxit». The frame shows losses and abrasions of the gilding, small dents, scratches and normal signs of use and aging. Ideal for collecting and investment - The present frame is included with the sale of the work as a courtesy. Any transport damage related solely to the frame cannot be the subject of refund or dispute. Photographic note: Some images of the work were professionally taken with the aid of artificial lighting (studio spotlight) in order to highlight more clearly the painting characteristics, the material, the color, and the conservation state of the painting. Color perception and brightness may therefore vary slightly compared with viewing the work under natural or ambient light. With a legally compliant provenance - Expertise Professional packing and insured shipping

Estimate:£1,017.89

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