Workshop of Simone de Magistris, Saint Genesius de Magistris, 1600, Oil on Canvas

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Simone de magistris (caldarola, c. 1538 – 1613) or workshop
saint genesius

oil on canvas (84 x 62 cm - … Read more Simone de magistris (caldarola, c. 1538 – 1613) or workshop
saint genesius

oil on canvas (84 x 62 cm - framed 99 x 76 cm)

in the heart of ancient rome, amid the pomp and christian persecution at the hands of emperor diocletian, the extraordinary story of saint genesius unfolds. He is one of the most fascinating figures in christianity: a theater actor who, on the stage of a pagan comedy, is inspired by god and transformed into a martyr, offering his life for his newly discovered faith.

the patron saint of actors and musicians, his figure remains relevant today, inspiring reflection on the redemptive power of faith, capable of converting even those who mock it.

the face of the young saint emerges from the darkness of the background with alabaster skin, framed by golden curls, and large, expressive eyes that do not seek the viewer but are turned upward, as if enraptured by a divine vision in a dreamy expression.

these elements, imbued with a strongly mannerist style, reflect in every detail the pictorial characteristics of the eccentric simone de magistris (1538-1613), a painter who trained in venice and rome, following the example of lotto and federico zuccari.

although he is a little-known artist, his style is easily recognizable, combining a visionary, dramatic, and highly expressive mannerism with the marche tradition, with distinct venetian and tuscan influences. The figure of the saint captivates the viewer with his magnetism, portrayed in a theatrical yet intimately spiritual guise, with an expression charged with pathos, almost caricatural, found in several of de magistris's works, so unusual that it remains etched in the memory (see madonna of the rosary, in particular the face of saint catherine of siena, source: fototeca zeri).

completing the iconography of the young martyr are his two unmistakable attributes: an antique violin, distinguished by its carved lion's head anklet, an exquisite detail that evokes the strength of faith and the nobility of sacred art, and the palm frond (symbol of martyrdom) shaped like a bow.

even the details of the saint's clothing are a triumph of mannerist contrasts: he wears a light-colored tunic decorated with horizontal gold stripes across the chest, over which he wears a piece of metal armor on the shoulder. A sash of antique pink brocade crosses the torso diagonally, wrapping around the chest like a theatrical scarf, and then ties at the waist with a striking gold sash. The acid, bright, and iridescent tones of the fabrics—a direct legacy of lorenzo lotto's influence—vibrate vigorously against the black background, accentuating the composition's suspended atmosphere.

additional information:

the work is presented in a beautiful gold 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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