Italian school, early 17th century, The Temptation... Lot 38

Italian school, early 17th century, The Temptation of Saint Anthony, Oil on canvas re-waxed, canvas: 55.5 x 39.5 cm, + frame, Entirely restored, Saint Anthony is a 3rd-century monk who sets off to live in isolation, as a hermit. He was then tempted by the Devil in the form of visions of earthly pleasures. He never succumbed to the temptations sent by the Devil to turn him away from his faith. In this composition, we see him concentrating on reading his work, under the protection of the angels in heaven. In the background, the demonic creatures return to the cave, no doubt realizing that they will not be able to tempt Saint Anthony.