By Francesco del Cairo or a follower (17th Century)

SAINT AMBROSE

This powerful Baroque-style oil painting depicts Saint Ambrose, the revered 4th-century Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church. The saint is portrayed in rich episcopal vestments, including a gold-hued cope and mitre, holding a crosier in his left hand and a book in his right. His gaze is directed upwards, conveying a sense of profound contemplation or spiritual rapture.

The dramatic use of chiaroscuro—strong contrasts between light and dark—and the rich, warm palette are characteristic of the Italian Baroque, particularly the Lombard and Neapolitan schools. This composition is well-documented within art history, with the prime version located in a private collection in Italy. Similar examples have been previously offered at auction, attributed to the circle or followers of prominent artists such as Francesco del Cairo and Mattia Preti.

This piece is a striking representation of religious authority and Counter-Reformation piety, perfect for a collector of Old Master paintings.

Dimensions: H:50in L:42in