Who painted Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata?

Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata was painted by Alù in 1695.

Where can I see Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata?

Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata?

Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata

Alù , 1695

Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata is an ink print by the Baroque artist Alù. It dates from 1695 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Candlesticks line the sides, and a draped coffin sits in the center, surrounded by swirling scrollwork and religious symbols.

This drawing shows a towering, ornate funeral structure in a church. It’s made of carved wood and metal, with spiraling columns, flickering flames, and a crown on top. Candlesticks line the sides, and a draped coffin sits in the center, surrounded by swirling scrollwork and religious symbols.

The detail work is wild—every corner has curls, crosses, and tiny figures. This was built for a funeral in 1695, but the artist, Alù, packed it with dramatic flair.

Next, check out etching to see how artists like this made precise, layered prints.

Overview

Catafalque for Ranuccio II in the Church of the Steccata is a 1695 etching on laid paper by Alù, currently in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a grand, ornate catafalque erected in the Church of the Steccata for the funeral of Ranuccio II. The structure is adorned with spiraling columns, flames, a crown, candlesticks, and intricate scrollwork, incorporating religious symbols and miniature figures, reflecting the solemnity and pomp of the occasion.

Technique & Style

Alù's etching showcases meticulous detail and layered precision, characteristic of the medium. The level of intricacy, with curls, crosses, and small figures, highlights the artist's skill in capturing the dramatic and elaborate nature of the catafalque.

History & Provenance

Created in 1695 for Ranuccio II's funeral, the catafalque itself was a temporary structure. The etching by Alù, however, has endured, now residing in the National Gallery of Art, Washington, as part of its print collection.