Italian Artist, The Martyrdom of the Four Crowned Saints, 1660, Oil on Canvas

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A refined 17th-century Italian painting. Oil on canvas artwork depicting the condemnation and martyrdom of the four crowned saints: Claudius, … Read more A refined 17th-century Italian painting. Oil on canvas artwork depicting the condemnation and martyrdom of the four crowned saints: Claudius, Nicostratus, Castorius, and Symphorian. According to tradition, the four were skilled stonemasons and refused to create pagan sculptures for the Emperor, professing their Christian faith. On the right, we see Emperor Diocletian pronouncing sentence, pointing to a classical statue of the god Apollo.

Two men with bound arms are led before him, while in the background, two other men kneel about to be beheaded. We see the executioner with his sword raised, while in the sky, a winged cherub holds the palm of martyrdom. The protagonists are depicted in historical dress, and the composition is rich in wonderful details, notably a jester in the foreground sitting on the steps, playing with a sweet little dog.

This artwork is attributed to the Bolognese painter Giuliano Dinarelli (1629-1671), a favorite student of Guido Reni and a specialist in religious scenes. (The painting does not currently come with an expertise, but one can be requested upon payment of the relevant additional costs.) This rare painting is perfect for cultured and discerning collectors, ideal for refined settings and prestigious professional studios. The painting has already been restored with re-lining, replacement of the stretcher, and re-coloring in small areas. Overall, it is in good condition. See less