Charles de LA FOSSE (Paris 1636 - 1716) - Lot 113

Lot n° 113
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Estimation :
2000 - 3000 EUR
Result with fees
Result : 5 120EUR
Charles de LA FOSSE (Paris 1636 - 1716) - Lot 113
Charles de LA FOSSE (Paris 1636 - 1716) Sainte Cécile Canvas 47.5 x 30 cm Our Saint Cecilia, patron saint of musicians and embodiment of the spiritual fervor expressed in music, is part of Charles de La Fosse's mature period. A pupil of Charles Le Brun, he gradually freed himself from this influence to adopt a brighter, more colorful style, marked by the influence of Venetian painting, particularly that of Veronese. At the time, religious subjects were the subject of numerous commissions, for churches, private devotion and princely collections. The figure of the saint, gazing heavenward, symbolizes the direct link with the divine and the reception of sacred inspiration. Her instrument becomes the sign of celestial harmony, transforming music into true prayer. The work's warm light, vivid colors and gentle, graceful movement herald the rococo sensibility. Finally, the light enhances the sanctity of the subject, creating an effect of grace and elevation. This depiction thus illustrates the transition from the still-expressive Baroque to the delicacy of the nascent Rococo. Here, La Fosse demonstrates his talent for color and light effects, transforming a religious theme into a scene of poetic ecstasy. Our painting is similar to two others: a Saint Cecilia, less richly dressed than in our painting, and accompanied by two angels to her left (see C. Gustin-Gomez, Charles de La Fosse, Dijon 2006, T.II., P. 120, reproduced). A common element, however, is the organ's sphinx-shaped foot. The unctuous fingerboard is quickly brushed; the palette and "cangianti" effects clearly demonstrate Veronese's influence. A second Saint Cecilia of slightly larger dimensions (H. 0.54; W. 0.45 cm, see Ibidem, P. 138, reproduced) appears in several 18thᵉ century sales. We would like to thank Madame Clémentine Gustin-Gomez for confirming the authenticity of the work on photo and for her help in writing this notice. Expert : Cabinet René Millet
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