Maarten de Vos (Antwerp, 1532 - 1603)
workshop

Late 16th - early 17th century

Oil on copper

30 x 22 cm. - in frame 40 x 34 cm.

The valuable copper painting we are presenting here, depicting St. Michael the Archangel subduing the devil, is a work attributable to the Flemish artist Maarten de Vos (Antwerp, 1532 - 1603) and his workshop, and is distinguished by its excellent workmanship.

De Vos followed the dictates of the Antwerp School; he was first a pupil of the illustrious Flemish painter Frans Floris, and then, after a stay in Italy, between Rome and Florence, he settled in Venice where sources report that he was a pupil of Tintoretto.

The restitution of the painting to the painter is based on comparisons of the same subject that can be reliably traced back to him, and in particular the engraving by Hieronymus Wierix, dated 1584, bearing the inscription 'M. de Vos figuravit', which illustrates the same details of the Saint.

Depicted as a young man of rare beauty, strong and delicate at the same time, with wings spread and an imposing shield, he raises his index finger to the sky as if to admonish the rebel angel lying at his feet. The soft drapery envelops the angel's body with an intense classicism, where a balanced composition concentrates the observer's attention on his angelic face.

Supreme Commander of the angelic hosts, he is depicted here with his strong symbolic power, representing the victory of Good over evil, of Light over darkness.

His figure, which occupies the centre of the composition, appears surrounded by clouds that create concentric circles characterised by flamboyant colours, from acid yellow to violet to sky blue to deep blue, and emanates a light that radiates over the entire composition.

The archangel rises into the air thanks to his two large outstretched wings, dressed in a long tunic reminiscent of the Renaissance, whose drapery gives a marked sense of movement, and holds a shield in his left hand evoking his role as commander of the heavenly hosts.

St. Michael's sweet and serene face contrasts with the contorted pose and tense gaze of the devil, recalling his wickedness, compared to the beauty of the archangel, symbol of goodness. The demon appears on the ground, subdued and trampled, characterised as a monstrous hybrid being, with features that are part human and part animal.

The painting is superbly decorative, of excellent execution quality and characterised by a luminous design and bright, vivid colouring, enhanced by the special copper support.

The conservation condition of the work appears to be good.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The painting is sold complete with an attractive gilded frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and descriptive iconographic card.

We take care of and organise the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers.

Should you have the desire to see this or other works in person, we will be happy to welcome you to our new gallery in Riva del Garda, Viale Giuseppe Canella 18. We look forward to seeing you!

In case of purchase of the work by foreign customers it will be necessary to obtain an export permit, which takes about 10 days; our gallery will take care of the whole phase until it is obtained.

Please contact us for any information or to arrange a visit, we will be happy to respond.

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