Continental Europe, probably France, ca. late 18th to early 19th century. A magnificent painting - oil and gold wash on wood - depicting a classical mythological theme - the dramatic abduction of Persephone by Hades, a theme that captured the imagination of many artists, including Rubens, Rembrandt, and Bernini. Note how the artist of this painting has unleashed his imagination to capture the erotic and exotic qualities of this theme with an impressive command of pose, gesture, and movement. Emotional force and visual complexity imbue this composition with immense feeling and power. Despite the classical narrative, this artist rejected Neoclassicism's emphasis on reason and line and the Enlightenment's ideals of rationality and harmony. Instead the drama of Romanticism prevails. A compelling painting of this famous subject, set in an attractive frame. Size of painting: 17" L x 20.75" W (43.2 cm x 52.7 cm) Size of frame: 25.375" L x 29.375" W (64.5 cm x 74.6 cm)
Provenance: private Ventura County, California, USA collection
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#166064
Condition
Several old cracks with cloth tape from old repairs on the verso. Surface wear with scuffs and nicks as shown. Nice craquelure. Back slats were added to prevent warping. Frame dates later than the painting, but complements it nicely and is wired for display.