Mary Magdalene In A Garland Of Flowers - Mario Nuzzi (1603–1673)

Mary Magdalene in a Garland of Flowers
Mario Nuzzi, known as "Mario de' Fiori"
(Penna San Giovanni, January 19, 1603 – Rome, November 14, 1673)

Oil on canvas
Second half of the 17th century
Canvas: 71 x 55 cm
Frame: 98 x 82 cm

Excellent condition

This splendid composition depicting Mary Magdalene surrounded by a garland of flowers is attributed to the famous painter of floral still lifes, Mario Nuzzi (Penna 1603 – Rome 1673). He was nicknamed “Mario de’ Fiori” for his skill in depicting a wide variety of botanical species on his canvases in the typical style of his Flemish contemporaries. In addition to his meticulous observation of floral varieties, the artist stands out for his ability to capture the effects of light, highlighted by his consistent use of an absolutely dark background—a technique still rooted in the tradition of Caravaggio.
The work published here perfectly exemplifies his artistry and is part of a series of paintings featuring sacred images set within a sumptuous garland of multicolored flowers. Following the remarkable success of a subject that uniquely combined the sacred and the profane, Nuzzi and his workshop produced a varied series of works depicting Madonnas, saints, Nativity scenes, and other sacred scenes within floral garlands. The noble families of Rome, who made up a large part of his clientele, found this artistic combination—imported from the Flemish masters—very appealing, and easier to display than traditional sacred paintings.
Noteworthy in this case, in addition to the beautiful garland—which astounds with its countless succession of petals and corollas—is the quality of the central painting, executed with great finesse and rich in detail.
Mary Magdalene lies in a dark cave, bathed in light streaming from a luminous landscape. Above her, a group of cherubs play music and sing praises to the Lord. The skull and the sacred scriptures lie beside the alluring Holy Sinner, bearing witness to her repentance.
The canvas is in excellent condition and is set in a substantial, antique gilded frame.

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