Saint Sebastian
Attributable to Astolfo Petrazzi (Siena, 1583 - 1665)
Oil on canvas
88 x 64 cm.
With frame 98 x 76 cm.
FULL DETAILS OF THE PAINTING (CLICK HERE)
The painting in question depicts an intense portrait of Saint Sebastian, shown full-length and immortalized in the moment of his martyrdom, following the death sentence handed down by Diocletian. The evident quality of the painting and the stylistic features that define it suggest its paternity to a talented Tuscan painter of the early 17th century, and in particular to Astolfo Petrazzi (Siena, 1583 - 1665).
He trained in Siena under the guidance of Francesco Vanni, and also collaborated with Ventura Salimbeni and Pietro Sorri.
He was a highly talented artist with a very distinctive pictorial style, who skilfully blended Leonardesque influence with the Sienese school and early Mannerism. Our author has skillfully reproduced his style here with great mastery, especially his strong realism and the component of pathos, which would become one of the most characteristic elements of his stylistic imprint.
The attention to the realistic detail of physiognomy and emotions, the skilled use of light and shadow, and the profound knowledge and reworking of the models of Italian Renaissance painting are the characteristics we find in our beautiful Saint Sebastian.
The scene, far from the classical iconography that depicts him suffering pierced by arrows, instead portrays him in the moments immediately preceding the initial martyrdom, where the executioners or torturers prepare the saint, bound to a tree on the Palatine Hill, with parts of the imperial palaces depicted in the background. A soldier tightens the bindings on his feet, and another ties his arms behind his back.
The expression emanating from his face is highly emotionally impactful, with eyes open and turned upwards, where an angel is offering him the crown, symbolizing the victory of faith over death and foretelling his heavenly glory.
The Saint is indeed idealized in youthful beauty, from which his state of ecstasy emanates, transmitting to the viewer an example of absolute devotion and faith, elevating him to a figure of spiritual triumph.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The work comes with an antique frame and a certificate of authenticity and an iconographic descriptive sheet.
We handle and organize the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers.
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