The Studio of Guido Reni from 1620 to 1630: Formulating Compositions

Abstract

This article examines a selection of paintings by Guido Reni (1575–1642) and his studio that display comparable stylistic, compositional, and technical characteristics, all of which have been ascribed dates loosely between 1620 and 1630. The works that form the primary focus of discussion include the recently restored Toilet of Venus at the National Gallery, London, Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife from the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, two versions of the Penitent Magdalene—one in a private collection, the other a later work in the Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica in Rome—and Venus and Cupid from the Toledo Museum of Art, Ohio. By means of visual analysis and, where available, the study of technical imaging, links between these works become apparent, which, in turn, provide insight into Reni’s production process and studio practices during this period of his career.