Artwork
Saint Catherine of Alexandria
Saint Catherine of Alexandria is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Artemisia Gentileschi. It dates from 1615 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.
About this work
Overview
Saint Catherine of Alexandria is a Baroque painting by Artemisia Gentileschi, executed in oil paint. It is part of the Uffizi collection in Florence.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Catherine of Alexandria in a red robe, adorned with a crown, holding a sword (symbolizing martyrdom) and a palm branch (embodying faith). Her calm expression and strong posture convey serenity and resilience.
Technique & Style
Gentileschi employed chiaroscuro to create a dramatic contrast between the subject's vibrant attire and the dark background. Skillful manipulation of light and shadow imbues the scene with depth and emotional intensity.
History & Provenance
The work likely originated from the same preparatory drawing as Gentileschi's Self-Portrait as Saint Catherine of Alexandria (1615–1617), now in the National Gallery, London. It is currently housed at the Uffizi in Florence.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Artemisia Lomi Gentileschi (US: JEN-til-ESK-ee, -teel-; Italian: ; 8 July 1593 – after January 1654) was an Italian Baroque painter.
