It was listed by Brave Fine Art. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.
Brave Fine Art has dated this Antique Oil Painting to the 17th Century.
His expression is somewhat enigmatic.
John the Evangelist was one of Christ’s twelve apostles and traditionally thought to be the author of the Gospel of John and the Book of Revelation. He’s also referred to as John the Apostle. Over the centuries, he’s been depicted in numerous works and generally in one of three ways. At times, particularly in Byzantine art, we see him as an elderly man with a grey beard. While in mediaeval art originating in Western Europe, he’s often portrayed as youthful and whiskerless. However, here, in this piece from circa 1620, he’s somewhat androgynous with a genteel visage and flowing golden locks.
Historians have debated whether John’s feminine appearance was a deliberate attempt to enhance his appeal with female worshippers. In this respect, it’s interesting to consider Domenichino’s St John the Evangelist from a similar period.
How this fragment came into existence is unknown but it’s plausible that its parent work became damaged and was cut down accordingly. It’s an enchanting survivor.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 23½” x 24½” / 60cm x 63cm
Year of creation: c. 1620
Provenance: Private collection, France.
Condition: Canvas relined. Fine and settled craquelure throughout, as you would expect. Numerous historic repairs and layers of inpainting. Frame in excellent condition.
Our reference: BRV2015
Brave Fine Art has dated this Antique Oil Painting to the 17th Century.
Exquisite antique paintings that capture the imagination.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Brave Fine Art Profile Page
Early 17th-century Italian School, Portrait of Saint John the Evangelist - Antique Oil Painting
