Artwork

The Holy Ghost, Angels and the Virgin with Saints Mark, Stanislau Kostka (Holding the Child), Aloysius Gonzaga and Francesco Borgia

The Holy Ghost, Angels and the Virgin with Saints Mark, Stanislau Kostka (Holding the Child), Aloysius Gonzaga and Francesco Borgia, by Antonio Balestra, oil, 1710
The Holy Ghost, Angels and the Virgin with Saints Mark, Stanislau Kostka (Holding the Child), Aloysius Gonzaga and Francesco Borgia, by Antonio Balestra, oil, 1710

The Holy Ghost, Angels and the Virgin with Saints Mark, Stanislau Kostka (Holding the Child), Aloysius Gonzaga and Francesco Borgia is an oil painting by Antonio Balestra. It dates from 1710 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

This 1710 oil painting by Antonio Balestra depicts a celestial gathering centered around the Virgin Mary, accompanied by saints and angels. The composition conveys a sense of reverence and devotion.

Subject & Meaning

The painting brings together the Virgin Mary, the Holy Ghost (implied, not depicted), and several saints: Mark (with a book), Stanislau Kostka (holding the Child, possibly symbolizing spiritual guidance), Aloysius Gonzaga (in white, looking up), and Francesco Borgia (in black). The scene likely represents a moment of spiritual communion or veneration.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, the work features Balestra's use of vibrant, symbolic colors (notably blue and red for the Virgin) and dynamic cloud-filled backgrounds, characteristic of Baroque religious art. Figures are rendered in various states of movement and contemplation.

History & Provenance

Created in 1710, the painting is now part of the collection at the Statens Museum for Kunst.

Context

The painting reflects the Baroque era's emphasis on emotionally charged religious scenes, possibly catering to the devotional practices of its time, particularly honoring the saints depicted.

Legacy

While specific impact or influence of this work is not widely documented, it remains a representative example of early 18th-century Baroque religious painting, offering insights into the artistic and religious sensibilities of its era.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Antonio Balestra

Artist

Antonio Balestra

Antonio Balestra (1666–1740) was an artist, born in Verona.