Framed 17th Century Oil - Mary Magdalene at the Foot of the Cross

Description

An atmospheric devotional work depicting the Crucifixion of Christ with Mary Magdalene. Christ on the cross is rendered with golden luminosity against a dark background. Mary Magdalene, shown in penitent devotion, kneels to the lower left with her traditional attributes: the skull representing mortality and the transience of earthly life, the rose symbolising her transformation from sin to sacred love, and her precious ointment jar representing conversion and repentance. The loose, expressive brushwork and tenebrist lighting are characteristic of the 17th-century Baroque. The painting is well presented in a 20th-century frame. Inscribed verso 'Sebast. Ricci (1660-1734)', though we do not believe this to be an original work by Sebastiano Ricci. (Provenance: Collection L. de Ferdi-Kerages, Brest.) On canvas.

Condition

The painting has undergone previous restoration. The canvas has been fully relined. Surface craquelure has been stabilised. Inspection under UV light reveals areas of overpainting. Light wear noted to the frame. The overall condition of the artwork is very good.

Size

47 x 34cm (18.5" x 13.4")
Framed Size: 59.5 x 44cm (23.4" x 17.3")