Who painted The Death of St. Anne?

The Death of St. Anne was painted by Johannes Jakob Frey in 1850.

Where can I see The Death of St. Anne?

The Death of St. Anne is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

The Death of St. Anne

The Death of St. Anne is a print by Johannes Jakob Frey. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Death of St.

About this work

Overview

The Death of St. Anne is a 19th-century print by Johannes Jakob Frey, dating to 1850, which reproduces a composition originally attributed to Andrea Sacchi. The work captures the final moments of Saint Anne, mother of the Virgin Mary, in a black and white graphic format.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a somber scene of Saint Anne's demise, surrounded by a group of robed men. The presence of onlookers on a raised platform, turned away, and the serene natural backdrop of trees and distant mountains, underscore the solemnity and reverence of the moment.

Technique & Style

Executed in black and white, the print utilizes strong contrasts of light and shadow, characteristic of chiaroscuro, to create dramatic depth. The blurred facial features and simple, yet expressive, rendering of the figures' robes and postures emphasize the emotional gravity of the scene.

History & Provenance

Created by Johannes Jakob Frey in 1850, the print is based on an original composition by Andrea Sacchi. Specific details regarding its creation context, ownership history, or exhibition record are not provided.

Context

The work reflects the ongoing interest in religious themes and the revival of classical compositional styles during the 19th century. The choice of subject and technique aligns with the period's artistic preferences for dramatic and emotionally charged scenes.

Legacy

While specific impact or notable appearances in exhibitions and literature are not detailed, The Death of St. Anne print represents a continuation of Sacchi's influence through Frey's reproduction, contributing to the broader dissemination of religious art themes in the 19th century.