Artwork
Saint Roderick
Saint Roderick is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. It dates from 1646 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister.
About this work
Overview
The painting 'Saint Roderick' is an oil on canvas work created by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo around 1650-1655. It is housed in the Gemaldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Roderick, a martyr, vested as a priest. He holds a martyr's palm and a biretta, symbolizing his faith and martyrdom. A cherub above him holds a garland of flowers, adding to the saint's heavenly context.
Technique & Style
The work is characteristic of Murillo's style, with the saint's red robe and gold trim rendered in detail. The dark background with lighter areas suggesting a cloudy sky adds depth to the composition. The use of oil paint allows for rich, vibrant colors.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
