Circle of Paolo De Matteis, The Annunciation, 1700, Oil on Canvas

Details

Description

The Annunciation
Circle of Paolo De Matteis (Piano Vetrale, 1662 - Naples, 1728)

Oil on canvas
106 x 90 cm … Read more The Annunciation
Circle of Paolo De Matteis (Piano Vetrale, 1662 - Naples, 1728)

Oil on canvas
106 x 90 cm - with frame 118 x 103 cm.

This work, of high decorative value and certainly commissioned as an object of private devotion, depicts the moment of the supreme Annunciation to the Virgin Mary, a Gospel episode here centered on the two figures portrayed in the foreground: the Archangel Gabriel with outstretched wings, depicted with white lilies symbolizing purity, and the young Virgin kneeling before him, gazing at him in devotion.

The detail of the Virgin's lectern, crafted with a unique carving depicting a winged female figure with bare breasts, is highly expressive, as is the masterful rendering of the draperies, especially those of the angel.

Considering the high-quality stylistic features, both in terms of compositional invention and execution, and the elegance, yet simplicity, of the drawing, we are inclined to place the work in the context of a Neapolitan painter from the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

In particular, it is easily comparable to the stylistic work of Paolo De Matteis (Piano del Cilento, 1662 - Naples, 1728), a Neapolitan by birth who lived in Rome from 1682 to 1683. This experience was necessary given that in those years, artistic culture was experiencing a successful oscillation between a luminous Baroque language, influenced by Cortona, and the abandonment of naturalism in favor of the new style imported by Giordano.

An artist who would shape the development of 18th-century Neapolitan art, his works have a strong narrative tone and a marked sentimental and emotional charge.

The characteristics of the canvas, in terms of its treatment of light and figures, suggest that the work may date to the artist's Classicist period, specifically between the two centuries.

Excellent condition.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work is sold with a beautiful gilded wooden frame and comes with a certificate of authenticity and an iconographic. 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



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