Tuscan School Artist, Saint Michael the Archangel, 1580, Oil on Canvas, Framed

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Description

Saint Michael the Archangel Victorious over the Devil
Tuscany - 16th century

Oil on canvas

68 x 52 cm - … Read more Saint Michael the Archangel Victorious over the Devil
Tuscany - 16th century

Oil on canvas

68 x 52 cm - Framed 97 x 78 cm

This interesting Saint Michael the Archangel Subduing the Devil is a work of great character, by a Tuscan painter in the mid-16th century, distinguished by a particularly powerful and solemn Mannerist style.

The composition follows the traditional iconographic scheme: the Angel, depicted as a youth of rare beauty, echoes the image of a warrior, simultaneously strong and delicate; with outstretched wings, he effortlessly raises his spear, ready to strike the victory blow at the rebel angel, lying at his feet.

An element that makes our painting extremely rare, if not unique, for collectors is the highly distinctive iconography of the demon with female features. Indeed, he appears on the ground, subdued and trampled, like a monstrous hybrid, part human and part animal: with the torso of a woman, ample breasts, and a serpent's tail.

Saint Michael grasps her animalistic arm with his claws, as if to display these monstrous features. His serene face contrasts with the devil's contorted pose and tense gaze, which hints at his wickedness, compared to the beauty of the archangel, a symbol of goodness.

As supreme commander of the angelic hosts, he carries a powerful symbolic power,
representing the victory of Good over Evil, although we could discern a broader meaning in this iconography: the victory of virtue over lust and seduction (which has always been personified by women).

The skillful chiaroscuro effect, which adds volume and substance to the body emerging from the darkness, is beautifully combined with a brilliant chromatic impasto, featuring the intense red of Saint Michael's cloak with its elegant, sinuous folds.

The work appears to be in good condition.

The work is completed by a beautiful gilded wooden frame, not from the same period.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The painting 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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