Artwork

Heilige Katharina von Alexandrien

Heilige Katharina von Alexandrien, by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, oil, 1650
Heilige Katharina von Alexandrien, by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, oil, 1650

Heilige Katharina von Alexandrien is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the São Paulo Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Heilige Katharina von Alexandrien is a 17th-century oil painting attributed to Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, a Spanish Baroque artist known for his religious and genre works.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Saint Catherine of Alexandria, identifiable by her attributes and serene demeanor. She stands in a contemplative pose, holding a sword and wearing a floral crown, symbolizing her martyrdom and royal status.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by muted earth tones and a calm atmosphere, achieved through Murillo's use of oil paint. The subject is set against a hazy background, possibly depicting a city or landscape, which adds depth to the composition.

History & Provenance

Created around 1650, Heilige Katharina von Alexandrien is now part of the São Paulo Museum of Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

Artist

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo ( mure-IL-oh, m(y)uu-REE-oh, Spanish: ; late December 1617, baptised 1 January 1618 – 3 April 1682) was a Spanish Baroque painter.