This 18th-century oil painting is an exquisite example of the French or Italian school. Although unsigned, the painting’s skillful brushwork and rapid, textured strokes suggest it may have been created by a master artist of the period. The artwork features a mystical scene with a saint surrounded by a golden halo, almost reminiscent of an adoration scene. The dramatic chiaroscuro effect highlights the saint’s features against a deep red ochre background, enhancing the intricate details of the old man’s greying beard and the undulating brushstrokes.
The artist’s choice to let the red underlayer show through in certain areas adds vitality and intensity to the piece. This oil on canvas, re-stretched, is in excellent condition, as is the frame. The painting’s provenance is a private French collection. Further research could potentially attribute this work to a renowned painter of the time.
Artwork Details
- Artist: Unknown (Possibly French or Italian, 17th or 18th Century)
- Title: Unattributed
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Period: 18th Century
- Condition: Excellent condition; re-stretched canvas and frame
- Provenance: Private French Collection
Dimensions: 12.9 inches x 17.3 inches (33 cm x 44 cm)
Framed size: 17.7 inches x 22.4 inches (45.4 cm x 57 cm)