The Lamentation of Christ
Drawing on paper • Stefano Magnasco (Italian, circa 1635–1665)
Style & Movement
Genoese Baroque
Medium & Technique
Black and white chalk with grey wash on grey paper; characterized by sfumato transitions and luminist highlights (biacca)
Creation Period
Circa 1660-1665
Dimensions & Format
49 x 38 cm (19.25 x 14.75 in); Vertical/Portrait format
Subject Description
A dramatic religious composition depicting the Pietà or Lamentation. The Virgin Mary supports the slumped body of Christ, flanked by mourning angels and putti. The work features the dynamic, agitated line and emotional intensity characteristic of the mid-17th-century Genoese school.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paper appears stable with minor age-related toning consistent with 17th-century paper
Estimated Market Value
$8,000 - $12,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$6,000 - $9,000 USD
Provenance History
Erich Schleier Collection, Berlin; Sotheby's London, 5 July 2000 (Lot 184 as Genoese School); Van Ham Cologne, 17 May 2024 (Lot 1063 as Stefano Magnasco); Authentication confirmed by Simonetta Valenti.
Art Historical Significance
A rare example by the father of Alessandro Magnasco. Stefano's work is scarce due to his early death; this drawing demonstrates the influence of Valerio Castello and the transition to the more idiosyncratic 'pitturato di tocco' style that would define the next generation of Genoese artists.
Notable Features
Includes a distinctive gilt rococo-style frame with a light blue matting; notable for its secure attribution by leading scholars in Genoese Baroque studies.
Condition Issues
Slight surface wear and potential fading of the grey wash over centuries; faint creasing or paper undulation visible under raking light.
Conservation Recommendations
Provide UV-protective museum glass, ensure acid-free mounting, and maintain stable humidity to prevent foxing.
Collector Notes
Steffano Magnasso (ITALIAN CIRCA 1635-1665) The lamentation of Christ Chalk and grey wash on grey paper 49 x 38cm (19¼ x 14¾in.) Provenance: Erich Schleier Collection, Berlin Sale, Sotheby's, London, 5 July 2000, lot 184 (as Genovese School 18th Century) Sale, Van Ham, Cologne, 17 May 2024, lot 1063 (as Stefano Magnasco) The authentication of this lot was confirmed by Simonetta Valenti, Rome, at the time of its previous sale at Van Ham, Cologne