Artwork
St. Matthew Writing His Gospel
St. Matthew Writing His Gospel is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Carlo Dolci. It dates from 1670 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum. St.
About this work
Overview
St. Matthew Writing His Gospel is a 1670 oil painting by Carlo Dolci, a Florentine artist known for detailed religious works.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts St. Matthew writing, assisted by a cherub holding an inkpot. Matthew is dressed in a blue robe and pink cloak, with a halo indicating his saintly status. The scene conveys a sense of devotion and quiet contemplation.
Technique & Style
Dolci's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, with strong contrasts between light and dark. The artist's attention to detail and refined execution are characteristic of the early Baroque period.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Carlo (or Carlino) Dolci (25 May 1616 – 17 January 1686) was an Italian Baroque painter active mainly in Florence, known for highly finished religious pictures, often repeated in many versions.
