Historical Subject, Oil on Canvas, Framed

Description

Oil on canvas. The large scene depicts an unidentified historical episode set in the Renaissance period, in which an archbishop … more Oil on canvas. The large scene depicts an unidentified historical episode set in the Renaissance period, in which an archbishop hears the plea of a young man in arms, accompanied by his mother, who supports his plea. The setting is inside the reception room of the high prelate, presumably in the bishop's palace, which from the loggia in the background overlooks the cathedral, whose dome can be glimpsed. The bishop is surrounded by his subordinates and guards, while various members of the people watch. The man seated in the foreground on the left, looking towards the spectator and pointing to the scene as if he were narrating it, is a peculiar presence. The atmosphere is played out by the contrasts between light and shadow, between the bright colours of the dominant figures and the dull, soft tones of the surrounding figures, who tend to literally disappear into the shadows at the edge of the scene. The work is part of the large 19th-Century production that drew on historical or literary subjects, re-proposing them in a romantic key. The painting, restored and re-presented, is presented in an important frame dating from the second half of the 19th Century, with some missing parts. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution less