"pietà" Christ Supported By The Virgin - Bernardino Campi Workshop (1522–1591)

The "Pietà" Christ Supported by the Virgin
Oil on canvas
Bernardino Campi Workshop
(Cremona, 1522–Reggio Emilia, 1591)
Late 16th-century
Emilian Baroque frame from the 17th century
Toile cm. 60 x 48
Cadre cm. 80 x 68
Excellent condition
Relined in the 19th century

The painting depicts the dramatic scene of the Virgin embracing her lifeless son just after he was taken down from the cross, one of the most powerful subjects in Sacred Art. This particularly evocative work, painted in oil on canvas towards the end of the 16th century by an Emilian master from Bernardino Campi's circle, most likely executed in his workshop. The artist depicts the scene with great emotional impact and a remarkable engaging effect, even though the faces of the protagonists maintain an expression of infinite sweetness, avoiding forced exasperation and cruelty. The choice of a more serene composition, despite the tragedy of the event, was prompted by the private client's request and the resulting use for domestic devotion.
The canvas is in excellent condition, relined in the 19th century, and housed in a magnificent carved and gilded frame, typical of 17th-century Emilia.