Artwork

Estigmatización de Santa Catalina de Siena (copia)

Estigmatización de Santa Catalina de Siena (copia), by Eduardo Rosales, oil, 1862
Estigmatización de Santa Catalina de Siena (copia), by Eduardo Rosales, oil, 1862

Estigmatización de Santa Catalina de Siena (copia) is an oil painting by the Realist artist Eduardo Rosales. It dates from 1862 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Estigmatización de Santa Catalina de Siena (copia), an oil painting from 1862, is a work by Spanish artist Eduardo Rosales, associated with the Italian Purismo movement. It is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene scene of three women in white robes kneeling together in prayer or contemplation. Central to the composition is a recumbent figure with outstretched arms, suggestive of a state of spiritual or physical surrender. A nearby open book and palm branch imply themes of devotion and possibly martyrdom, referencing the titular saint's experience of stigmata.

Technique & Style

Rosales employs strong chiaroscuro, contrasting the glowing white robes of the figures against a darker, more subdued background, which includes a detailed, gilded altar and a hazy, distant cityscape. This use of light and shadow, characteristic of Realism, enhances the emotional and spiritual intensity of the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1862, during Rosales's period of producing historical and religious scenes, the painting reflects his adherence to Realist principles. It is part of the Museo del Prado's collection, indicating its recognized artistic and historical value.

Context

Painted during the Realism period, this work aligns with the movement's emphasis on detailed, everyday, and historical subjects, presented in a straightforward manner. Rosales's association with Italian Purismo adds a layer of stylistic and thematic influence from Italian artistic trends.

Legacy

As part of the Museo del Prado's collection, *Estigmatización de Santa Catalina de Siena (copia)* contributes to the museum's extensive representation of Spanish and European art, particularly works from the Realist period. Its presence reflects the enduring interest in religious and historical themes in 19th-century Spanish painting.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Eduardo Rosales

Artist

Eduardo Rosales

Eduardo Rosales Gallinas (4 November 1836 – 13 September 1873) was a Spanish painter. He was an adherent of the Italian-based art movement known as "Purismo" and specialized in historical scenes.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

Continue through works from the same source collection.

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