Battle scene

oil on canvas

38 x 48 cm.

with frame 55 x 66 cm.

The compositional and stylistic characteristics of our delightful battle scene, such as its dramatic intensity and dynamic composition, suggest a close affinity with the work of the painter Michelangelo Cerquozzi (Rome 1602 – 1660), known precisely as the ‘Michelangelo of Battles’ for his mastery of this genre, and one of the most celebrated exponents of Roman Baroque painting.

Our painting, in particular, captures the moment immediately following a clash, with the knights about to assess the immediate aftermath of the battle.

The detail of the landscape in the background is beautiful, featuring a city and an ancient hilltop fortress which, though barely recognisable, nevertheless offers a realistic view of the suburban areas of the Eternal City.

Scenes of this kind were intended for 17th- and 18th-century collections, not so much to celebrate grand war themes as to decorate noble and bourgeois residences: battle paintings were particularly favoured during the Baroque era and were often inspired by military events of the day, of genuine topical relevance, in an age of wars and armies that continually invaded Italian territory.

The style evident in the canvas is a unique fusion of Italian tradition and the influence of the Northern painters present in Rome. This blend is a distinctive feature of Cerquozzi’s oeuvre; he succeeded in combining the analytical attention to detail typical of the Flemish school with the narrative composition and chromatic sensibility of the Roman pictorial tradition.

The work is in good condition, with the paint layer sound, though there are some areas of restoration.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work is sold complete with an attractive antique frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet.

We arrange and organise the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, using professional and insured carriers.

It is also possible to view the painting at our gallery in Riva del Garda; we would be delighted to welcome you to view our collection of works.

Should the work be purchased by an overseas client, an export licence will be required, which takes approximately 10–20 days to process; our gallery will handle the entire process until the licence is obtained. All costs associated with this procedure are included.

Please feel free to contact us for any further information.

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