“The Discovery of the Tomb of Saint James” by Giacomo Bolognini represents a work of particular relevance within Bolognese painting between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. A pupil and collaborator of Domenico Maria Canuti, Bolognini trained in an environment still deeply connected to the Carracci tradition, yet open to the scenographic and theatrical solutions typical of the High Baroque.
The large canvas, oval in format, depicts the moment of the discovery of the tomb of Saint James, an episode constructed through a rather complex and strongly narrative composition. At the centre of the scene, the bishop and the kneeling figures simultaneously guide the viewer’s attention towards the focal point of the sacred event. However, the work is not limited to devotional representation: the arrangement of the figures, the animated gestures, and the contrast between architecture and landscape create an articulated and dynamic visual narrative.
Moreover, light plays a central role. The illuminated areas highlight the protagonists, while the darker parts accentuate the depth and theatrical character of the scene. In addition, the broad draperies, intense colours, and variety of poses confirm the artist’s solid figurative culture. On the other hand, the rich bibliography and the presence of the work in important international exhibitions, between Bologna, Washington, and New York, testify to its historical and artistic interest.
Description: Oil on canvas, H cm 210×270.
Publication: “Bolognese Rooms. The Lauro Collection”, edited by D. Benati and P. Giordani, Milan, 1994, p. 95, img. 69; G. Zanotti, “Stories of the Accademia Clementina”, Bologna, 1739, II, p. 28; L. Crespi, “Lives of the Bolognese Painters Not Described in the Felsina Pittrice”, Rome, 1769, p. 82; M. Oretti, “Information on the Professors of Drawing… Bolognese”, late 18th century, Bologna, Biblioteca Comunale, ms. B. 130, fols. 257-262; J. T. Spike, “In the Age of Correggio and the Carracci, Catalogue of the Bologna-Washington-New York Exhibition”, Bologna, 1986, p. 407, no. 135; S. Stagni, “Domenico Maria Canuti, Painter (1626-1684)”, Rimini, 1988, p. 225; A. Mazza, “Giacomo Bolognini, Painter and Clementine Academician” in “Accademia Clementina. Proceedings and Memoirs”, n.s. 27, 1990, pp. 50-53.
Exposition: Bologna, Pinacoteca Nazionale; Washington, National Gallery; New York, Metropolitan Museum, 1986-1987.
Hammer Price: € 41.250,00
Auction 64 – 25 October 2023 – Dimore
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