Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio

Tucked away in the charming town of Nocera Inferiore, Italy, the Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio (Pinacoteca del convento di Sant'Antonio) is a hidden gem that beckons art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. This delightful gallery, ensconced within the historic convent of Sant'Antonio, offers an intimate glimpse into the rich tapestry of religious art and the fascinating history of the region.

The History of the Convent

The convent of Sant'Antonio has long been a spiritual and cultural hub in Nocera Inferiore. The Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio was born from the tireless efforts of Father Guglielmo Salierno, who dedicated himself to the preservation and restoration of the artworks housed within the convent. Today, visitors can marvel at a collection of paintings, primarily oil on wood, that have been meticulously safeguarded over the years.

In recent years, many of the gallery's treasures have been relocated to the Sala della Congiura, part of the Museo archeologico dell'agro nocerino. However, the Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio still boasts an impressive array of artworks displayed in its main hall and corridor, offering a serene and contemplative environment for visitors.

The Collection

The Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio is home to an array of captivating works, each with its own unique story and significance. Let's take a closer look at some of the masterpieces that grace the gallery's walls:

Sala della Congiura

One of the standout pieces in the Sala della Congiura is the painting of Saint Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Lawrence the Martyr. Saint Catherine is depicted according to traditional iconography, holding a palm in her left hand and resting her right hand on the hilt of a sword. Nearby, the spiked wheel, the instrument of her martyrdom, serves as a poignant reminder of her sacrifice. This painting is attributed to Marco Cardisco, who worked on the coffered ceiling of the church of the Conventuals in Nocera.

Another captivating work is the Madonna del Carmine, a touching portrayal of the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child. The Madonna, adorned with a delicate transparent veil, cradles the Child on her lap. The tender interaction between mother and child is beautifully captured, with two angels crowning the Virgin from above. This masterpiece, commissioned by the Sellitti family in 1541, is attributed to Severo Ierace.

The Madonna delle Grazie e anime purganti is a striking depiction of the Virgin Mary standing with a dark green mantle, intricately embroidered with gold. The Child presses the nipple of Mary's breast to allow milk to flow to the tiny souls in purgatory. This painting underscores the equalizing power of death, with some souls reaching out in prayer while others remain partially submerged in fiery pits.

Another notable piece is the Madonna d'Alba, a tondo that is a copy of the original by Raphael. This work, which was housed in Nocera until the mid-17th century, continues to captivate viewers with its serene beauty.

The Sposalizio mistico di Santa Caterina da Siena, a copy of the original on the main altar of the church of Sant'Antonio, forms part of a triptych by Andrea Sabatini da Salerno. The triptych, dating back to 1519, also includes depictions of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

The Adoration of the Magi, a 15th-century masterpiece, offers a sacred representation with a distant marine landscape reminiscent of the Gulf of Naples. The elegant movements and postures of the Magi suggest an influence from the Perugino school of painting.

Other remarkable works include Saint Andrew and Saint Michael the Archangel, attributed to Marco Cardisco, Andrea da Salerno, and the Maestro di Barletta. These paintings likely formed part of a polyptych that once adorned the coffered ceiling of the church, which was dismantled in the 19th century due to safety concerns.

The Picture Gallery

The main hall of the Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio houses several notable works, including the Madonna with Child, Saint Bernard, and Saint Aniello. This oil on canvas, dated between 1561 and 1567, is attributed to the artist Negroni. The painting's composition reflects the peak of Negroni's artistic development, influenced by Polidoro da Caravaggio's innovative style.

Another intriguing piece is the Salomè/Giuditta with the heads of John the Baptist and Holofernes, an artwork of uncertain attribution that echoes the dramatic themes of Caravaggio. The painting depicts two heads on a platter, representing the famous beheadings from the New and Old Testaments.

The 17th-century painting, The Meeting of Jesus with the Pious Women, attributed to Francesco Di Maria, captures a poignant biblical moment. Meanwhile, the Santa Lucia, of uncertain origin, is believed to be in the Flemish or Sicilian style, with the addition of donor figures.

The Corridor

The corridor of the Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio features a striking painting of the Trinity, attributed to the 16th century. The composition is dominated by the figure of the Father, seated in glory and holding the crucified Son. The Holy Spirit, depicted as a dove, rests on the right arm of the Cross, its wings outspread as if it has just landed. The background is divided into two parts: an archaic gold upper half and a dense cloud in the lower half, creating a powerful visual impact.

In conclusion, the Picture gallery of the convent of Sant'Antonio in Nocera Inferiore is a treasure trove of religious art and historical significance. Whether you are an art aficionado or a curious traveler, this gallery offers a serene and enriching experience that transports you back in time. The dedication of Father Guglielmo Salierno and the timeless beauty of the artworks ensure that the legacy of the convent and its collection will continue to inspire for generations to come.