Francesco FURINI (Florence 1604-1646) - Lot 68

Lot 68
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10000 - 15000 EUR
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Francesco FURINI (Florence 1604-1646) - Lot 68
Francesco FURINI (Florence 1604-1646) Saint Sebastian cared for by the two women Canvas Damage and restoration 178 x 130 cm This dramatic and theatrical scene of Saint Sebastian being cared for by Saint Irene and her handmaiden is repeated twice by Furini (G. Cantelli, Francesco Furini, Pontedera 2010, nos. 74 and 75, reproduced). Our unpublished painting presents two striking variants from the Bordeaux and Lucerne canvases: the bloody arrow on the ground beside the vase, the martyr's instrument, and the wound on the saint's pelvis. A native of Florence, Furini studied under Matteo Rosselli before joining Florence's Accademia del Disegno, establishing himself as a distinguished artist at the Medici court. His works are characterized by an elegant sensuality and the use of subtle chiaroscuro, influenced both by the Mannerism he received in his training and by the Caravaggesque naturalism that dominated the period. An artist distinguished by his depiction of the body, he idealized our Sebastian, who is depicted young, with smooth skin, far from a realistic representation of suffering. Muscles are not exaggeratedly marked, in the manner of the Neapolitans and Ribera's disciples, reinforcing an impression of gentleness. Chiaroscuro is used here to create an intimate atmosphere. The painting's backgrounds are dark, almost black, highlighting the saint's pale skin. The light focuses mainly on the torso and face, guiding the viewer's gaze. This process is reminiscent of works by Guido Reni, who also painted several Saint Sebastian figures (e.g. the painting in the Louvre) bathed in soft, ideal light.
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