The Lamentation of Christ (Beweinung Christi)
Drawing on paper, mounted • Stefano Magnasco (Genoese, circa 1635-1672), authentication confirmed by Simonetta Prosperi Valenti Rodinò
Style & Movement
Genoese Baroque; High Baroque
Medium & Technique
Black and white chalk with grey wash (grisaille/watercolor) on grey paper
Creation Period
Circa 1650-1670
Dimensions & Format
49 x 38 cm (19 1/4 x 14 3/4 in.); Portrait format
Subject Description
A dramatic religious scene depicting the dead body of Christ being mourned. The Virgin Mary is positioned centrally with arms outstretched, flanked by weeping angels and putti. The composition is dynamic and diagonal, characteristic of the Genoese Baroque style, emphasizing emotional intensity and divine light.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows typical signs of aging for a 17th-century work on paper including minor surface wear and mounting evidence.
Estimated Market Value
$2,500 - $4,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,500 - $2,500 USD (Approx. €1,200 - €2,000)
Provenance History
Erich Schleier Collection, Berlin; Sale, Sotheby's London, 5 July 2000, lot 184 (as Genoese School 18th Century); Sale, Van Ham, Cologne, 17 May 2024, lot 1063 (as Stefano Magnasco).
Art Historical Significance
A rare secure attribution to Stefano Magnasco, the father of Alessandro Magnasco. It demonstrates the influence of Valerio Castello and the transition from Genoese Mannerism to the more fluid, expressive Baroque handled with a characteristic 'presto' brushwork.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its grisaille technique which highlights the artist's draftsmanship; significant for its clear provenance from the distinguished Schleier collection and recent re-attribution by a recognized scholar.
Condition Issues
Possible light foxing, minor creasing consistent with age, and evidence of prior mounting/hinging on the reverse.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional museum-quality framing with UV-protective glass and acid-free mounting is recommended. Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with low lux levels to prevent fading of the wash and chalk.
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