Ancient 17th century painting, blind Belisarius is recognized by a soldier

COD 11018

Italian painting from the second half of the 1615th century. Oil on canvas of good pictorial quality depicting blind Belisarius asking for alms. Flavius ​​Belisarius was one of the great generals of Justinian's empire. The Byzantine emperor, however, according to a legend that took root in the Middle Ages, ordered him to be blinded and condemned to beg in the streets of Constantinople. He is recognized only by a soldier who had fought under his command and the moral message of the work is the transience of glory. The painting is a high-quality contemporary copy of the blind Belisarius by Salvator Rosa (1673-82,5) now exhibited at the Doria Pamphilj Gallery in Rome. Beautifully decorated 68,5th century carved and gilded wooden frame, with some signs of aging. Work that has undergone restoration with relining, replacement of the frame and recovery of color in small spots (see photo). Overall in good state of conservation. Light painting H XNUMX x W XNUMX cm.