Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio manner of; Saint John the Evangelist, oil on canvas

Description Manner of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio Milan 1571 - Porto Ercole 1610 Saint John the Evangelist Oil on canvas cm 91.5x107 The painting depicts Saint John the Evangelist, one of the four evangelists of the New Testament. He is recognizable by several iconographic elements: The young, beardless face, with delicate and idealized features, consistent with the tradition that presents him as the youngest of the apostles. The upward gaze, in ecstasy or divine inspiration. The book or manuscript he holds in his hand, a symbol of the Gospel he wrote. The gesture of the raised right hand, which may indicate a mystical vision, divine inspiration, or the act of proclaiming the Word. The painting is clearly influenced by the late Baroque period and in particular shows characteristics linked to the Caravaggio school or manner of Caravaggio, including: Marked use of chiaroscuro: the figure emerges from a dark background with an intense and dramatic light that strikes the volumes in a theatrical way. Intense and naturalistic expression of the face, which communicates deep emotional involvement. Rich and realistic drapery in the fabrics, with effects of volume and movement. The work is probably datable between the late 17th century and the early 18th century. This period saw the spread of Caravaggio's influence throughout Europe, particularly in Italy and Spain, but also in the Netherlands. Dimensions cm 91.5x107 Provenance Private collection Conditions Defects and losses. Restorations. Non-coeval frame.