Christ on the Cross with Mary Magdalene
Simon Vouet·c. 1645
Historical Context
This Christ on the Cross with Mary Magdalene by a follower of Simon Vouet was painted around 1645, reflecting the French classical Baroque style that Vouet introduced to Paris after his return from Italy in 1627. Vouet's elegant, colorful interpretation of Counter-Reformation subjects dominated French painting until the rise of Poussin and the classical school. His workshop and followers produced numerous religious paintings for French churches and private patrons.
Technical Analysis
The oil on canvas demonstrates the Vouet school's characteristic combination of Italian Baroque drama with French elegance. The warm palette and the fluid, decorative treatment of the figures reflect Vouet's synthesis of Venetian color, Caravaggesque light, and French grace.
Provenance
Private Collection, Zurich, to 1974 [according to letter of March 19, 1981 from Grizelda Grimond, Colnaghi to Susan Wise in curatorial file]; bought by Colnaghi, London, 1974 [according to letter cited above]; sold by Colnaghi to the Art Institute as by Michel Dorigny, 1978.
