St. Joseph with Flower Stick

Oil on oval canvas

92 x 70 cm.

In antique frame 106 x 85 cm.

The work shows us an intense image of St. Joseph, portrayed according to the classical iconography that sees him as a mature man holding in his hands a staff from which lilies bloom, symbol of the Virgin's purity.

This iconographic attribute also alludes to his figure as God's chosen one as Mary's future husband. According to the apocryphal gospels, the Virgin had grown up in the Temple of Jerusalem, following a monastic lifestyle, and when she reached marriageable age, each of the suitors was given a dry branch, awaiting a divine sign: the only one that bloomed was that of Joseph, who in our painting holds it in his left hand.

In his hands he holds a book, presumably the First Gospel, in the first pages of which is the narration of his betrothal to Mary.

The work, belonging to the 17th-century Lombard school, shows strong affinities with the style of the famous master Carlo Francesco Nuvolone (Milan, 1609 - 1662), with a style characterised by great expressive force, albeit characterised by a soft drafting, playing on delicate nuances and chromatic tones, and also characterised by a noticeable softness of light.

This work is a perfect example of Nuvolone's ability to render the softness and flamboyance of the complexion of the face and chest, with the delicate fingers tapering as they hold the gospel, as well as the vaporous hair and beard.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The painting is sold complete with an attractive gilded wooden frame and comes with 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 are waiting for you!

Contact us for any information or to arrange a visit, we will be happy to answer you.

In case of purchase of the work by non-Italian customers, it will be necessary to obtain an export permit, which takes about 10/20 days; our gallery will take care of the whole phase until it is obtained. All costs of this operation are included.

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