Analysis of an ancient fresco expression of mediation and transition between action and contemplation

The safeguarding and enhancement of cultural heritage is the fundamental theme of this paper and the subject matter of our academic research. In recent years we have turned our attention to exploring the art history of central Italy, turning a critical eye to some little-known works of art. The aim is to ensure they are provided with suitable and updated documentation attesting their existence and state of conservation, in order to contribute to the enhancement and promotion of Italian cultural heritage, and through this stimulate tourism. This study examines a painting in a rock-cut church situated near Isernia and makes use of information gathered in the archives present in Molise and directly by us during several study visits to the site. The sets of photographs, which complete the survey of the structure housing the painting, were taken between spring 2015 and autumn 2021. This time span made it possible to undertake an examination of the painting’s state of preservation in addition to making an in-depth analysis of its figurative programme. The collected material has been digitized, so that it constitutes a source of information as well as being the product of the final iconographic narration, expressed through the photographic images and a series of drawings documenting the characteristics, including the hidden structure with which the artist organised the representation taken from the Gospels, which being the fruit of meditation and the transition between action and contemplation is of significant theological value.