Saint George and the Dragon, Alessio Baldovinetti (Florence, 1427 – Florence, 1499) circle

Alessio (or Alesso) Baldovinetti (Florence, 1427 – Florence, 1499) circle
St. George and the Dragon

Oil on the table
32 x 42 cm. – framed 47 x 57 cm.

Provenance: Hampel Munich, 31-03.2017, lot 854 (Alesso Baldovinetti, circle, €10.000-15.000) (LINK)

The interesting painting we present to you, executed in oil on wood, illustrates the triumph of Saint George, a noble Christian knight, whose amazing adventure against the dragon, imbued with symbolic meaning in the struggle between Good and Evil, has always been a favorite theme in art: in the Renaissance period, it allowed the ideals and values ​​of both chivalry and religion to be staged.

One day he arrived in the kingdom of Silene, plagued by the presence of a terrible dragon, whose destructive power could only be contained by human sacrifices. It was the "soldier of Christ" who slew the dangerous beast and saved the sovereign's daughter from the monster's jaws. As a reward, he demanded neither honors nor money, but that all the people convert to Christianity and receive baptism.

In the painting, Saint George, saint and knight at the same time, is captured in the moment of his triumph over the Dragon, while he pierces it with his lance.

He is depicted according to traditional iconography, astride his steed, dressed in shining armor and a crested helmet, while his iridescent red cloak appears billowing in the wind, enhancing the sculptural figure's dynamism. In the background, the terrified princess prays for her salvation.

The analysis of the features allows us to attribute the work to a Renaissance painter of Tuscan culture, specifically Florentine, although the pictorial style is more archaic and would refer to earlier painting.

In particular, the work bears a traditional attribution to the Florentine Alessio Baldovinetti (Florence, 1427 – Florence, 1499), an Italian painter and draughtsman of the early Renaissance, known for his clear and accurate style and innovative use of light based on models by Paolo Uccello, Giovanni di Francesco and Andrea del Castagno.

The bright and contrasting color palette, the narrative expression that skillfully conveys the fairytale atmosphere of the episode and the particular interest in the landscape are elements that support this association with the painter, precisely in the late phase of his long career.

Very good condition, restorations and repainting.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work sold is completed by a pleasant frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and guarantee.

We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers.

It is also possible to see the painting in the gallery in Riva del Garda, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works.

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