Christ in Jerusalem

16th/17th century

Oil on canvas

85 x 104 cm

In a fine antique frame (with missing pieces, defects and restoration work on the frame) 106 x 123 cm.

The image captures Christ's solemn and triumphant entry into Jerusalem, a crucial moment narrated in the Gospels and which has inspired numerous works of art, testifying to its importance in Christian tradition, commemorated on Palm Sunday.

Christ, serene and majestic, is surrounded by a jubilant crowd that welcomes him with enthusiasm and devotion, spreading cloaks and palm branches on the ground as a sign of homage and acclaiming him as the Messiah with the cry “Hosanna!”. He is depicted riding a humble donkey, a symbol of peace and humility, in contrast to the grandeur of the event.

The work plays with bold chiaroscuro, creating depth and emotional intensity, with divine light seeming to descend on Christ and part of the crowd, while the areas of shadow contribute to a sense of pathos and mystery, typical of Venetian Renaissance art, enhanced by the rich and vibrant colour palette.

The painting is, in fact, a fine example of Venetian painting, the work of a Venetian painter active between the 16th and 17th centuries, based on the pictorial models of Jacopo Robusti, known as “il Tintoretto” (Venice, 1519 - 1594), one of the most daring and innovative figures of the Venetian Renaissance.

In our opinion, the authorship should therefore be sought within his circle or among the large group of pupils who gravitated towards the master's Venetian workshop.

His career, which spanned the 16th and 17th centuries, was characterised by a unique approach to painting that helped define Venetian Mannerism, with a unique ability to transform religious themes into compositions of great emotional intensity, which cannot fail to impress the observer.

His quick and decisive brushstrokes are one of the most distinctive features of his style, giving his works extraordinary liveliness and dynamism. Finally, his bold use of light and shadow and theatrical perspective demonstrate extreme technical mastery and creative impetus, making his style highly recognisable and an inspiration to many 16th-century painters.

Also noteworthy is the technical mastery of our author, with specific details of great emotional impact, such as the mother breastfeeding in the lower left corner, the pair of women with their backs to Christ, and finally the character, also with his back turned, which reflects Tintoretto's typical skill in portraying anatomical details, creating figures capable of exuding strength and vitality.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work is sold complete with a gilded wooden frame and comes with a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic card.

We take care of and organise the transport of purchased works, both in Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to view the painting in our gallery in Riva del Garda, where we will be delighted to welcome you and show you our collection of works.

Please contact us, without obligation, for any additional information.

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