Girolamo Troppa attr.
Rocchetta in Sabina 1636 - Rome 1710
Adoration of the shepherds
17th century
Oil on canvas
in 81,10x117,72
This monumental canvas represents a significant addition to the catalog of Girolamo Troppa. It embodies the usual artistic references of his work (Mola, Baciccio, Brandi, Giuseppe Ghezzi), but the influence of Carlo Maratta stands out particularly, along with works such as the Nativity in San Giuseppe dei Falegnami in Rome and the Adoration of the Shepherds in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. However, Troppa dramatically lowers the lofty and classicist tone inherent in Maratta's art, bringing it to a humbler register of simple, rustic grace—almost vernacular in style—more aligned with his manner and undoubtedly well-suited to the evangelical narrative. A compelling point of comparison is the Adoration of the Shepherds in the Church of Santa Maria del Glorioso in San Severino Marche.
This attribution was made by Dr. Francesco Petrucci, who identified this canvas as a previously unknown autograph work by Girolamo Troppa based on photographic evidence.
in 81,10x117,72
Private Collection
Petrucci Francesco (a cura di), Girolamo Troppa, Todi, Ediart, 2021.
Defects and restorations.
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Troppa Girolamo - Rocchetta in Sabina 1636, Rome 1710; was an Italian Baroque painter known for his religious and mythological scenes. Born in Rocchette (near Rome), he worked primarily in central Italy, including Rome, Umbria, and Lazio. He was influenced by the tenebrist style of Caravaggio and the dramatic compositions typical of Baroque art.
Birth and Early Years: Troppa was born in Rocchette in 1637. He likely trained in Rome, which was a thriving center of Baroque art during his time.
Career: His documented works are scattered across churches and private collections in Italy, especially in Lazio and Umbria. Troppa's clients included religious institutions and private patrons.
Death: He passed away around 1710.
Artistic Style
Troppa's style is characterized by:
Tenebrism: Like many Baroque artists, he employed stark contrasts of light and shadow to heighten drama and emotion.
Dynamic Composition: His works often feature swirling, energetic arrangements typical of Baroque art, with figures in expressive poses.
Religious Themes: He focused on Catholic iconography, producing altarpieces and devotional paintings that conveyed spiritual intensity.
Mythological Elements: In addition to religious works, he painted scenes from mythology, showcasing his versatility and knowledge of classical themes.
Troppa's work exemplifies the dramatic and emotive qualities of Baroque painting, making him a noteworthy, though not widely known, figure in the period's artistic landscape.