The Continence of Scipio, oil on panel, Italy 17th century.

Oil on canvas. Northern European school of the 17th century. The scene depicts an episode from the life of Scipio as recounted by Titus Livius and Valerius Maximus. Publius Cornelius Scipio, later known as Scipio Africanus, in 209 BC during the campaign in Spain, after the capture of Carthage, received as a personal gift a beautiful virgin, who was part of a group of hostages. However, listening to the pleas of her family, he respected her by sending her back to her parents and fiancé, with the only recommendation that her betrothed work for peace between Rome and Carthage. In the depiction, Scipio is at the centre, seated on his throne, turning to the left towards the pleading parents of the young girl, while with a merciful gesture, he indicates for them to take back their daughter, who stands to the right, flanked by her boyfriend. All around, soldiers and supporters of the king. The scene is rich in figures, bright and colourful, highlighting the positivity of the king, a central and powerful figure, yet capable of gentleness and clemency. The restored painting has been reinforced on the back with wooden battens. It is presented in an elegant frame.