Saint Paul of Thebes tempted by a demon, after Magnasco. Artist: Bartolommeo Gazalis (Italian, born Genoa, active Milan, 1720-30); After Alessandro Magnasco (Italian, Genoa 1667-1749 Genoa). Dimensions: Sheet: 12 7/8 × 8 1/4 in. (32.7 × 21 cm). Date: ca. 1720-30.Born around 227 in the Thebaid region of Egypt, Paul of Thebes is regarded as the first Christian hermit. Here he is shown partly naked, meditating on a cross, and seated outdoors, emphasizing his poverty and commitment to spiritual life. The skull in the lower left corner is a reminder of the transience of earthly existence. In the upper section, a demon in the guise of a sensuous woman attempts to distract him from his devotion. The saint's elon-gated figure and the loose and dense style of etching reflect his familiarity with the prints of Giovanni Bene-detto CastiglioneGazalis made only two etchings, both based on designs by Magnasco. The only other known impression of this print is the Civica Raccolta Bertarelli in Milan.