No. 97746232

Francesco Guarini (1611-1651), After - Holy Saint Agatha
No. 97746232

Francesco Guarini (1611-1651), After - Holy Saint Agatha
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A refined 19th-century oil painting after Francesco Guarino (1611–1651/54), faithfully echoing the celebrated original preserved in the Museo di San Martino, Naples. The work presents Saint Agatha, the noble Sicilian martyr of the 3rd century AD, who was tortured for her Christian faith and subjected to the brutal mutilation of her breasts—an ordeal from which she was later miraculously healed.
The half-length, frontal format reflects the influence of Guarino’s master, Massimo Stanzione (1586–1656, explaining the wrong annotation on the back), whose depictions of female martyrs set a precedent for this strikingly direct mode of representation. From around 1640 onward, both painters developed a style marked by heightened realism and psychological intensity—qualities clearly present in this copy.
The dramatic illumination, with the saint’s left side bathed in bright light and her right side receding into darkness, is characteristic of the Caravaggesque chiaroscuro that shaped Neapolitan painting of the period. Guarino, like many of his contemporaries in Naples, absorbed the powerful legacy of Caravaggio, evident in the expressive modeling and strong tonal contrasts reproduced here.
The painting is housed in a magnificent Victorian Revival frame, richly carved with scrolling ornament and finished in warm gilding. This opulent frame enhances the solemn beauty of the composition, making the piece both a devotional artwork and an impressive decorative object.
A compelling 19th-century homage to one of Guarino’s most evocative images, combining Baroque intensity with Victorian craftsmanship.
⦿ Dimensions (approx.): 40 x 59 cm (artwork), 58 x 69 cm (incl. frame/total).
⦿ Condition: Exhibits an authentic patina of age (see pictures). Historical retouches. Marouflaged: signs of historical restoration overheating.
⦿ Estimated Period: early/mid 19th century
⦿ Note: The splendid antique frame is included as a gift and should be treated as such!
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– Dispatched from Germany, or free pick-up available.
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⦿ Please consider reusing or recycling the packaging. Thank you!
⦿ Important Note for U.S. Buyers:
Due to updated U.S. customs regulations, shipments may require additional processing time upon arrival. Import duties or customs fees—if assessed—are the responsibility of the buyer. Please ensure your shipping details are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
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