Painting on stone (alabaster), 17th century: Christ at the Column, Italia.

Painting on stone (alabaster), 17th century: Christ at the Column, Italian School  

Technique: Oil on alabaster  
Period: 17th century  
Dimensions without frame: 16.8 x 13.3 cm  
Dimensions with frame: 19 x 23 cm  

A painting on alabaster, a precious and sought-after support in the 17th century, valued not only for its material rarity but also for its ability to create subtle optical illusions. The natural veining of the stone appears to transform into elements of the landscape, evoking clouds or architectural forms that blend seamlessly into the scene, playing with the viewer’s perception.   

Christ, bound to the column, is depicted with crepuscular tones in his face and body, which heighten the dramatic intensity of the scene. The artist has skillfully incorporated the irregular color variations of the alabaster into the composition.  

The painting shows minor abrasions, which are due to the fact that it is painted directly on stone with almost no preparatory layer. This makes the surface particularly delicate, and it is rare to find paintings on stone in good condition, as the adhesion of the paint is naturally weaker compared to works on canvas or wood panels. The high-quality alabaster enhances the composition with its rich, intense coloration, while the veining creates striking visual effects that add an atmospheric and almost mystical dimension to the scene.  

The painting is preserved in its original antique octagonal frame, ebonized with silvered metal details, which requires restoration. This type of artwork, intended for private collections or refined cabinets de curiosités, represents a fusion between miniature painting and the fascination with optical effects that captivated Baroque taste.