Francesco Monti, 1685 Bologna – 1768 Brescia

SAINT GEMINIANUS DRIVES THE DEVIL OUT OF THE EMPEROR'S DAUGHTER Oil on canvas. 53 x 35 cm. In gilded frame. In a high palace room with columns, the saint stands wearing a golden mitre and a long robe, his right arm raised wide to cast out the devil from a young woman who has fallen back before him and is held by a man under her arms. She is wearing a noble robe and a pink cloak, her arms are stretched out in pain and her mouth and eyes are wide open. Above her, a thin, almost black figure floating in the air hurries away, the devil's figure exorcized from within her. Opposite the young woman, wearing a bright red cloak and crown, which identifies him as the emperor, stands her father, pointing to his daughter with his right arm outstretched. Numerous figures are present at this event, such as a man holding a cross or a bishop's crozier to the side of the saint, as well as two women on the left, who are looking after the devil. In the background, the emperor's throne with a red canopy can be seen in another room. Multi-figured, expressive and gestural painting with skillful accentuation of light and dark. Minor retouching. Annotation: St. Geminianus was Bishop of Modena in the 4th century. The old tales of healing and exorcism associated with his name are evidently a reflection of an outstanding personality. (14008960) (18)