Baldassare Franceschini, il Volterrano (Volterra 1611-1690 Florence)

This remarkable, unpublished painting stands as an important rediscovery in the oeuvre of Baldassare Franceschini, il Volterrano. Although an initial impression can be distorted by the heavily discoloured varnish, this layer of surface dirt actually conceals a remarkably well-preserved picture. The composition and handling are typical of the artist, as is the facial type, which may belong to one of his regular studio models. The theme of a youthful demi-god is one Volterrano also explored in his well-known Hylas holding a vase, formerly with Trafalgar Galleries, London, and now in the Staatsgalerie, Stuttgart. The dramatic chiaroscuro and smooth, sculptural treatment of flesh in the present work recall one of Volterrano's most monumental masterpieces, his Orpheus and Eurydice (Florence, Emilio Pucci Collection).