1602 - ITALIAN MASTER “The Ecstasy of Saint Benedict,” 17th or 18th century. Oil on canvas. 92 x 53 cm. In a gilded Baroque-style frame. 109 x 71 cm. This large-format painting depicts Saint Benedict of Nursia in deep religious ecstasy. The saint, clad in the dark habit of his order, is portrayed in a posture of ecstasy, his gaze directed upward and his hands folded imploringly before his chest. A bright halo surrounds his head. To his right, a youthful, winged angel kneels, offering him the bishop’s crozier and looking up at him devoutly. In the background, in a shadowy niche, appears the figure of a monk blessing another, smaller figure—presumably a novice or a child. The scene is bathed in atmospheric chiaroscuro, reflecting the dramatic lighting typical of the Counter-Reformation. The dense composition and the monumental presence of the figures suggest an Italian Baroque master, possibly from the circle of the Bolognese School or Naples. Signs of age; varnish has darkened; craquelure; partially retouched and with relining. The frame has minor dents.