The 4 Continents in Adoration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Late 17th Century, Oil on Canvas

Details

Description

Splendid oil on canvas painting depicting a rare iconography of the 4 continents in adoration of the Holy Spirit or … Read more Splendid oil on canvas painting depicting a rare iconography of the 4 continents in adoration of the Holy Spirit or the sacred heart of Jesus. A truly ambiguous canvas, the pictorial context of which is difficult to understand, but which could concern a worthy painter from central Italy, probably Tuscan from the mid-17th century or the second half of the century. This composition is truly effective, with the allegorical figures of the 4 continents (Europe, America, Asia and Africa) in the foreground with their fascinating attributes, surrounding the globe on which weapons and swords are left and abandoned, while from behind winged devils writhe in the flames lulled by the force of good and the divine spirit. In the distance an idyllic night landscape with barren and deserted mountains. The image of great spiritual force stands out instead on the upper plane where the sacred heart of Jesus tied with strands of thorns to remember the passion of Christ and surmounted by a cross is surrounded by a multitude of musical angels with feverish poses coming out of the clouds. Contributing to the symbolic and mystical charm of this canvas is, at the top, the pyramid with a central eye. The Roman gilded "Salvador Rosa" frame is from the seventeenth century and maintains excellent gilding. The measurements of the canvas are approximately: 79cm x 104 h; with frame 91cm x 116cm. We attach a certificate of authenticity to the sale. See less