Scuola lombarda del Seicento

17th century Lombard School Saint Joseph with a flowering staff Oval oil on canvas 92 x 70 cm. - In antique frame 106 x 85 cm. The complete details of this work can be found directly at the following - LINK - The work shows us an intense image of Saint Joseph, portrayed according to the classical iconography that sees him as a mature man holding in his hands a staff from which lilies bloom, a symbol of the Virgin's purity. This iconographic attribute also alludes to his figure as chosen by God as the future husband of Mary; according to the apocryphal gospels, the Virgin had grown up in the Temple of Jerusalem, following a monastic lifestyle, and when she reached marriageable age, a dry branch was given to each of the suitors, awaiting a divine sign: the only one that bloomed, was that of Joseph, who in our painting holds it with his left hand. Between his hands he holds a book, presumably the First Gospel, in whose first pages there is the narration of his engagement to Mary. The work, belonging to the sphere of the 17th century Lombard school, presents strong affinities with the style of the famous master Carlo Francesco Nuvolone (Milan, 1609 - 1662), with a style characterized by a great expressive force, although based on a soft drafting, played on delicate nuances and chromatic tones, and also characterized by an appreciable luminous sweetness. This work is a perfect example of Nuvolone's ability to render the softness and the garish light of the complexion of the face and chest, with the delicate fingers that taper while holding the gospel, as well as the vaporous hair and the beard. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The painting is sold complete with a pleasant gilded wooden frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and descriptive iconographic sheet. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. If you wish to see this or other works in person, we will be happy to welcome you in our new gallery in Riva del Garda, in Viale Giuseppe Canella 18. We are waiting for you! Contact us for any information or to arrange a visit, we will be happy to answer you. In case of purchase of the work by non-Italian customers, it will be necessary to obtain an export permit which takes about 10/20 days, our gallery will take care of the entire phase until it is obtained. All costs of this operation are included. Follow us also on: https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/