Artwork

Saint George and the Dragon

Saint George and the Dragon, by Cesare Rossetti, oil, 1632
Saint George and the Dragon, by Cesare Rossetti, oil, 1632

Saint George and the Dragon is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Cesare Rossetti. It dates from 1632 and is held in the collection of the Walters Art Museum.

About this work

Overview

Saint George and the Dragon, painted in 1632 by Cesare Rossetti, is an early Baroque Italian oil painting depicting a pivotal moment in the legend of Saint George. The work is part of the Walters Art Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting dramatically captures the legend of Saint George, with the saint on horseback, spear poised to strike the dragon beneath him. A bystander, a woman in a long dress, observes from the background, set amidst trees and foliage.

Technique & Style

Rossetti employed chiaroscuro to create tension and drama, contrasting light and dark to focus attention on the central action. Bold, expressive brushstrokes enhance the sense of energy and movement in the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1632 by Cesare Rossetti, a Roman-based Italian painter trained under Cavalier D'Arpino, the painting is now held in the collection of the Walters Art Museum.

Artist & collection

Artist

Cesare Rossetti

Cesare Rossetti (circa 1565-after 1623). was an Italian painter active in Rome. He was born in Rome, and a follower of Cavalier D'Arpino, whom he assisted in decorating the Lateran Palace. He is mentioned by Giovanni…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Walters Art Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.