Italian School; Saint Barbara, 18th century, oil on canvas

Description Saint Barbara Oil on canvas cm 93x71 The painting depicts Saint Barbara, a highly venerated Christian Saint, especially as the patron saint of miners, artillerymen and firefighters. This is evident from several iconographic attributes present in the work: Palm of martyrdom: in the left hand, symbol of martyrdom. Plate with the tower and the name "S. BARBARA": the tower is her most distinctive attribute, in reference to the legend that she was locked in a tower by her father to protect her from the Christian faith. Ecstatic expression and gaze turned upwards: typical of representations of saints, it indicates spiritual communion or divine vision. In Baroque style: this is evident from the rich drama of the expression, the use of vivid color (blue, red, gold), the abundant drapery and the theatrical composition. Marked lighting and emotional rendering are also typical characteristics of the Baroque. This painting is a devotional representation of Saint Barbara, made in the Baroque style during the 18th century. Dimensions cm 93x71 Provenance Private collection Conditions Missing parts and defects. Restorations.