Created:
Movement:
1645
Baroque
key Notes:
Monastic solemnity, Chiaroscuro contrast
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Dimensions:
74 x 40 3/4 in. (188 x 103.5 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Saint Benedict by Francisco de Zurbarán

Saint Benedict, painted by Francisco de Zurbarán in 1645, is a notable example of the artist's mastery in religious imagery, executed in oil on canvas. Zurbarán, a prominent figure of the Spanish Baroque period, is renowned for his ability to convey spiritual intensity and realism in his works. This painting exemplifies his skill in using chiaroscuro to create dramatic contrasts between light and shadow, enhancing the solemnity and contemplative nature of the subject. The depiction of Saint Benedict reflects Zurbarán's deep engagement with monastic themes, a recurring element in his oeuvre, which resonated with the Counter-Reformation's emphasis on piety and devotion. Historically, Zurbarán's work contributed significantly to the visual culture of 17th-century Spain, influencing both his contemporaries and later generations of artists. His paintings, including Saint Benedict, continue to be celebrated for their spiritual depth and technical precision.

Description of the work:

Saint Benedict by Francisco de Zurbarán

Created in 1645, Francisco de Zurbarán's "Saint Benedict" is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the Spanish Baroque style through its dramatic use of chiaroscuro and realistic depiction of religious figures. The artwork portrays Saint Benedict with a serene expression, emphasizing the spiritual and contemplative nature of the subject.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Saint Benedict