"DEPOSITION OF CHRIST" - TEMPERA ON PANEL - 16TH/17TH CENTURY

Subject: The scene depicted represents a Deposition from the Cross, with several figures around the body of Christ. In the background, three crosses and a ladder can be glimpsed, typical elements of the crucifixion. There are five main figures: Christ deposed, a female figure who caresses his hand (Mary Magdalene), another female figure behind them (the Virgin Mary), an elderly man with a turban and beard holding a hammer and nails and the crown of thorns (possibly Joseph of Arimathea), and John the Evangelist with a red cloak. The presence of the three crosses in the background on the left and a mountain or rock on the right (Golgotha) immediately contextualize the scene. Materials: Support: Solid wood panel, with evident grain and irregularities on the back. Painting technique: Egg tempera on panel Pigments: Earthy colors (ochre, browns), deep reds (cinnabar or burnt sienna), blues, and whites can be observed. The halos and some decorative details are made with gold leaf or golden pigment. Conservation conditions: Craquelure: The painting shows a dense and widespread network of craquelure, i.e. cracks in the pictorial layer, typical of the aging of panel paintings and thermohygrometric variations. The craquelure is more evident in the light areas and in the carnations. Previous Restorations: Isolated pictorial retouching. Support: The back of the panel shows signs of aging, such as scratches, small cracks and superficial alterations of the wood. Style and dating: Style: The style is characterized by figures with stylized but expressive faces, fluid draperies and a composition that recalls the religious iconographic tradition. The halos and the use of gold for decorative details suggest a Byzantine or post-Byzantine influence. Details such as the man's turban and the instruments of the Passion (hammer and nails) are consolidated iconographic elements. Dating: Based on the pictorial style, the craquelure and the general appearance, the work dates back to a period between the 16th and 17th centuries. Dimensions: 43 x 54 cm. A regular certificate of authenticity with photo is issued. We assure a response to your emails within 24 hours. REGISTERED IN THE ROLL OF EXPERTS AND EXPERTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LA SPEZIA AT NUMBER SP. 579