Who painted Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose?

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose was painted by Alessandro Magnasco in 1705.

Where can I see Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose?

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose?

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose?

Museum-quality prints of Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose

Alessandro Magnasco , 1705

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Alessandro Magnasco. It dates from 1705 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose is a 1705 oil painting by Alessandro Magnasco, created during the early Baroque period in Italy. The work depicts a pivotal moment of ecclesiastical authority over imperial power.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the historical event where Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, denied Emperor Theodosius I entry into a church, asserting religious authority over secular rule. The scene conveys the tension between spiritual and temporal power.

Technique & Style

Magnasco executed the painting with characteristic swift brushstrokes and dynamic lighting, resulting in figures that appear somewhat rough yet full of energy and movement. The predominantly muted color palette, with accents of red and blue, enhances the dramatic intensity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1705, the painting is part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection. Magnasco, active primarily in Milan and Genoa, was known for his late-Baroque stylized and often fantastical compositions.

Context

This work reflects the late-Baroque fascination with dramatic religious narratives and the assertion of ecclesiastical power, common themes in 18th-century Italian art.

Own this work as a print

Artist & collection

Artist

Alessandro Magnasco

Alessandro Magnasco (February 4, 1667 – March 12, 1749), also known as il Lissandrino, was an Italian late-Baroque painter active mostly in Milan and Genoa.