Historical Portrait of Clothilde Queen of the Franks - 17th Century Italian Master

An exceptional and very rare portrait of Saint Clothilde, Queen of the Franks, born around 474 or 475, possibly in Vienna, Montmirey-le-Chateau, Lyon, or Geneva, and died around 545 in Tours. She was a Burgundian princess who became Queen of the Franks by marrying Clovis around 492/493 or 502. This saint is venerated in both the East and the West.

Painted by an Italian Master Portraitist, this oil on canvas painting captures with rare elegance the grandeur and solemnity of this historical figure, founder of the Merovingian dynasty. Measuring approximately 80 x 65 cm, this work has been carefully preserved.
It is in excellent condition, having benefited from professional relining and cleaning, with no visible overpainting, which attests to its authenticity and exceptional quality.

Oil on canvas – circa 1770
Dimensions: 70 x 55 cm (without frame) | 86 x 71 cm (with frame)
Frame: Carved and gilded wood, Louis XV style
Provenance: Antique dealer in Milan (private collection)
It is ready to adorn a private collection or exhibition space.
Saint Clotilde is depicted in a majestic pose, wearing a crown adorned with gilded floral motifs, a symbol of her royal status and sanctity. Her richly embroidered robe combines shades of deep red and emerald green, enhanced with gilded details and white pearls that catch the light. She holds a symbolic object, perhaps a cross, evoking her piety and her role in the Christianization of the Franks.

Saint Clotilde (475-545), wife of Clovis I, is a key figure in Frankish history, famous for influencing her husband's conversion to Christianity, thus marking a turning point in the history of Gaul. This portrait, painted in the 17th century, falls within a period when European art sought to glorify the great figures of the past, often commissioned by religious institutions or noble families to celebrate their heritage.
The colors used in this portrait demonstrate the mastery of the Italian painter. Warm tones of red and gold dominate, symbolizing wealth and royalty, while deep greens and blacks bring a gravity and depth that contrast with the luminosity of the finery. The touches of white in the beading and embroidery add a delicacy and refinement characteristic of the 17th-century Baroque aesthetic. This work is part of the tradition of 17th-century royal portraits, a period when Italian art, influenced by the Baroque, emphasized pomp and symbolism. The depiction of historical figures like Clotilde reflects the period's interest in the origins of European monarchies and their divine legitimacy. This portrait could have adorned a church, a palace, or a private collection, testifying to the importance of these figures in the collective imagination. Today, it constitutes a rare and precious piece for lovers of historical and religious art.
The quality of this work is remarkable, both for the fine details—embroidery, jewelry, fabric textures—and for the expressiveness of the posture and attributes. The rectangular canvas measures approximately 80 x 65 cm, ideal dimensions for presentation in a living room, a gallery, or a museum collection. Its exceptional state of preservation makes it a choice piece for collectors. Careful shipping possible
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Detailed appraisal on our website:
https://www.artecollection.fr/boutique-1-01746970911--portrait-historique-de-clothilde-reine-des-francs-maitre-italien-du-17eme-.html

Ref: 0CELGX4NYL