Italian school; 18th century.
"The Transfiguration".
Oil on canvas.
It has repainting and restorations.
It has a new frame and lateral extensions.
Measurements: 102,5 x 82 cm; 118,5 x 98 cm (frame).
It is the representation of the passage of the transfiguration of Jesus, event narrated in the synoptic Gospels according to St. Luke, St. Mark and St. Matthew in which Christ metamorphoses, becoming a radiant figure in divine glory. In this way, Christ appears in the centre, standing in a break of glory, floating above the apostles and the Virgin, who also contemplates, kneeling, the transfiguration of her son. The composition of the scene is defined by a clear symmetry in which the figure of Christ acts as the axis of symmetry, with his arms open in the form of a cross, while in the lower area, on either side, are the apostles, who have been depicted as similar figures, bearded and with their faces tilted upwards to observe Jesus.
The work, which represents one of the most important episodes of the New Testament, does not faithfully follow the scriptures, as in this image we can see eleven of the apostles, while the biblical text only mentions the presence of Peter, James the Elder and John. Standing on the mountain, Jesus begins to give off bright rays of light, and it is then that the prophets Moses and Elijah appear at his side and speak with him. Jesus is then called "Son" by a heavenly voice, representing God the Father, as at his baptism.