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19th Century European Paintings

The Saintly Empress: Lustful, Pious and Determined

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In this Anatomy of an Artwork, discover the splendor of Roman Empress Theodora in this exceptional painting by Giuseppe de Sanctis. The extremely detailed work is filled with intricate byzantine artifacts and historic Christian iconography, but ultimately centers on the majesty of Theodora as a female icon. "Teodora", displayed for the first time in over 130 years, will be offered in our European Art Auction on 22 May.

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The Saintly Empress: Lustful, Pious and Determined

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