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Paintings
18th century
1
Paintings du 18th century
The alms to Belisarius in the ruins of Rome, attr. to J.N Servandoni
DIMENSIONS : l. 35.43 .inH. 44.49 .in
MATERIAUX : Oil on canvas
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?Very beautiful oil on canvas representing the ruins of a Roman temple invaded by vegetation.
An oblique light, which cuts the scene in two, illuminates the architectural details, such as the arcades or the pilasters which are sculpted.
The work may seem like a simple architectural caprice, but a silent face-off between two men at the bottom left tells a different story.
It is about a poorly dressed old man lying on the ground asking a young centurion of the Roman Empire for alms.
This scene illustrates the life of general Flavius Belisarius, known as Belisarius*, who after a brilliant career in Justinian's army, was deposed after having conspired against the emperor. Legend has it that he ended his life begging in the ruins, blind, in accordance with the punishment reserved for conspirators. The moment represented is when a young centurion, who was probably formerly under his command, gives him alms.
Wood and gilded stucco frame decorated with palmettes and pearls, early 19th century.
Good condition, posterior frame and lining.
French work, circa 1730-1740, attributed to Jean-Nicolas Servandoni for the architectural view, and perhaps François Lemoyne or François Boucher for the figures.
Dimensions :
Frame ; Height : 113 cm ; Width : 90 cm
Painting ; Height : 97 cm ; Width : 74 cm
Bibliography : Guillaume Glorieux, Jean-Nicolas Servandoni and architectural painting in the 18th century.
