Flemish school of the early 17th century. "The... Lot 13

Flemish school of the early 17th century. "The Raising of the Cross". Oil on copper. Measurements: 25 x 19,5 cm; 28,5 x 23,5 cm (frame). Together with the theme of the Descent from the Cross, during the Baroque period it was common the representation of the Raising or Elevation of the Cross. This was a theme that sought to imbue the composition with dynamism; the Baroque language made it possible to express this energetic and dramatic moment. This is a good example of what we have been referring to, a Flemish school painting whose author may have taken as a reference the panel with the same theme by Rubens (Antwerp cathedral). Soldiers, two of them mounted on horses, help to lift the cross. The bodies are crowded together, adopting a variety of poses and expressive gestures. In the background are Mary Magdalene and the Virgin. The colours are vivid, inheriting a Venetian palette. The inclined cross crosses the composition, creating a typically baroque diagonal. Christ gazes towards the sky, engaged in a silent dialogue with God the Father. The chiaroscuro models the bodies and the light bathes Christ's suffering anatomy in pearly shades.