Matthias Stomer Biography
Matthias Stomer (1600-1650) was a Dutch painter, student of the school of Gerard van Honthorst. After spending some time in Rome, he decided to settle in Italy for the entire duration of his artistic career. In Naples, Stomer worked between 1633 and 1639, producing many works. His painting, which recalls elements of Southern Italy, became increasingly material, approaching the painting of the "tremendous impasto", of which the anonymous master "master of the Annunciation of the Shepherds" (who some identify as Francesco Fracanzano) was the head boy. Subsequently, Stomer moved to Sicily where he worked until his death, producing many works characterized by strong luminous contrast. One of his most appreciated works is the canvas of "The Flagellation of Jesus", present in the Oratory of the SS. Rosary in San Domenico. In this work, the figure of Christ is struck by blinding artificial light, which gives the scene a dramatic and passionate intensity.
