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445 - Saint Jerome in Penance – 17th-century Neapolitan Master – N…
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Estimate €12,000 - €25,000
Sale commission
Description
Saint Jerome in Penance – 17th-century Neapolitan Master – Neapolitan School. 17th century Oil on canvas. Dimensions 100 x 81 cm. The painting depicts Saint Jerome in his old age, engrossed in reading the Holy Scriptures whilst gazing at a transcendent vision beyond this earthly realm. The figure appears semi-nude, revealing a stark anatomy of extraordinary expressive power, characteristic of the saint’s penitential iconography. The large open book is the principal symbol of his work as a translator of the Bible, whilst the presence of the skull reinforces the reflection on death, redemption and the fleeting nature of existence. The light falls intensely on the torso, face and hands, creating a powerful chiaroscuro effect that accentuates the emotional drama of the scene and enhances the sense of spiritual contemplation. The quality of the anatomical rendering, the naturalistic depiction of old age, the psychological intensity of the figure, and the vigour of the light clearly evoke the style developed by José de Ribera and his Neapolitan circle during the 17th century. The work is fully in keeping with the naturalistic Baroque aesthetic, in which physical realism and religious depth converge to create an image of extraordinary visual and spiritual intensity.
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About the sale GRAND SUMMER AUCTION OF HAUTE ÉPOQUE AND PRIVATE COLLECTIONS
Auction location
Auction time 06/29/2026 at 4:00 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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