A Female Martyr Saint

Carlo Francesco Nuvolone

Created:
Movement:
1655
Baroque
key Notes:
Baroque Spirituality, Dramatic Chiaroscuro
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Dimensions:
20 x 16 3/8 in. (50.8 x 41.6 cm)
medium:
Oil on wood
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"A Female Martyr Saint" is a painting attributed to Carlo Francesco Nuvolone, an Italian Baroque artist active in the 17th century. Created around 1650, the work exemplifies Nuvolone's skill in depicting religious themes with emotional intensity. The identity of the female martyr is not definitively known, as the painting does not provide explicit iconographic clues. Nuvolone's use of light and shadow reflects the influence of Caravaggio, a hallmark of Baroque art. The painting is characterized by its dramatic composition and rich color palette, typical of the period. Nuvolone was known for his religious works, and this painting fits within his broader oeuvre. The current location of "A Female Martyr Saint" is not specified in available records. Further details about its provenance or exhibition history remain unknown.

Description of the work:

"A Female Martyr Saint" by Carlo Francesco Nuvolone, created circa 1650, is an oil on wood painting that depicts a female figure, likely a saint, in a moment of serene contemplation. The saint is portrayed with a gentle expression, her gaze directed slightly upward, suggesting a connection to the divine. She is adorned in rich, flowing garments that exhibit a palette of deep reds and golds, enhancing her status and sanctity. The use of chiaroscuro is evident, with dramatic contrasts between light and shadow that create depth and emphasize the figure's three-dimensionality. The background is rendered in darker tones, which serves to highlight the saint and draw the viewer's attention to her. The composition is balanced, with the figure centrally placed, surrounded by subtle details that contribute to the overall narrative without overwhelming the central subject. The brushwork is meticulous, showcasing Nuvolone's skill in rendering textures, particularly in the fabric of the garments and the delicate features of the saint's face. The painting exemplifies the Baroque style, characterized by emotional intensity and a focus on the spiritual experience.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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A Female Martyr Saint