Pair of paintings depicting the penitent Magdalene and Saint Jerome in the desert, follower of Alessandro Magnasco, 18th century Oil on canvas Measurements: frames: cm H 46 x W 59.5 x D 5; canvas: cm H 37 x W 50 Price: confidential negotiation Object accompanied by a certificate of authenticity The two paintings, executed in oil on canvas, depict the penitent Magdalene and Saint Jerome in the desert, and are stylistically attributable to a painter active in the 18th century in the Ligurian area, a follower of Alessandro Magnasco (Genoa, 1667 –1749). The two subjects, taken from the New Testament, are depicted in landscapes characteristic of Italian painting between the 17th and 18th centuries, with imposing rocks, bodies of water, tall trees, mountains that fade into the horizon serving as a backdrop, and skies marked by vaporous clouds. Mary Magdalene, also known as Mary of Magdala, is depicted as penitent according to the traditional iconography, with hands clasped, long flowing hair, and a cross to which she addresses her prayers. Saint Jerome is represented in the guise of a penitent hermit in the desert, covered only by a red cloak. The multifaceted figure of Saint Jerome, hermit, penitent, but also cardinal and refined humanist who lived in the 4th-5th century, who translated the Bible into Latin, was considered the supreme example of the harmony between classical knowledge and Christian virtue. He was therefore a subject dear to a refined and cultured audience, not infrequently illustrated in works of small dimensions destined, like those presented here, for private devotion. The paintings are presented inside 19th-century lacquered wooden frames.

Period: First half of the 18th century

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