The Penitent Magdalene

Original 17th/18th Century Oil Painting on Canvas

follower of Guido Reni (1575 – 1642)

With early inscribed label 'Guido Reni' verso.
Painting - 73cm (28 3/4") x 61.5cm (24 1/4")
Frame - 93cm (36 1/2") x 80.5cm (31 3/4")

Lot Notes

A museum standard Italian Baroque style oil painting on canvas depicting Mary Magdalene alone in the wilderness by a follower of Reni. The painting is a remarkably accomplished old master which is likely to have been painted by an important 17th century Italian artist, probably working in Bologna and following the style of the 17th century Bolognese School. The painting shows the strong influence of Reni and it is likely that the present painting’s composition is based loosely on the composition first deployed by Guido Reni in an oil on copper now in the Château de Versailles (Louvre inv. no. 529). Although clearly by a master hand it is likely that the present painting is by a lesser known master than Reni although the attribution to Reni is clearly an early one with the label having long been in place on the reverse of the frame. There are comparisons, notably in the modelling and highly expressive hands which dominate this canvas, to a late student of Guido Reni's, Simone Cantarini (1612–1647). A wonderful ready to hang old master oil painting that would not look out of place in the National Gallery.

Condition

The painting is in fine condition; the canvas not lined though with three small patched repairs with corresponding restoration. There is some surface dirt, varnish discolouration and craquelure to the paint surface. There is bitumenization to the right of the face and neck, above and around her left hand, to the right part of the mantle, below her right hand and wrist, to the left of her left jaw. There is some paint shrinkage below the Magdalene's left hand and wrist. Examination under ultra violet reveals retouching and strengthening to the background. It further reveals retouching to all the areas with bitumenization. There is further retouching and inpainting to the hair and mantle and there is some inpainting to the right part of the face. The painting is presented in an 18th century wood and gilt composite inlaid frame, the frame with knocks, losses and some re-gilding.

Artist Information

General Information

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About Priory Fine Art

Priory Fine Art specialises in 17th - 20th Century British and European Fine Art. Our team have a combined experience of over 80 years in the field of fine art. We issue a certificate of authenticity with every painting that we sell.

We aim to provide a first class service with a personal touch, if you would like to discuss any painting we have for sale please call us on 01636 830 824.

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All items are covered by a no quibble 14 day money back guarantee.

In addition Priory Fine Art Limited warrants for a period of one year from the date of sale that where the larger white text which forms a listing's heading states without qualification that a work is by a named author that that item is an autograph work by that author and not a forgery or reproduction of any kind.

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