Artwork

St Theresa receiving a gold chain and a mantle embroidered with gold from the Virgin

St Theresa receiving a gold chain and a mantle embroidered with gold from the Virgin, by Gaspar de Crayer, oil, 1639
St Theresa receiving a gold chain and a mantle embroidered with gold from the Virgin, by Gaspar de Crayer, oil, 1639

St Theresa receiving a gold chain and a mantle embroidered with gold from the Virgin is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Gaspar de Crayer. It dates from 1639 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1639 oil painting by Gaspar de Crayer depicts a scene involving Saint Teresa of Ávila, a Spanish mystic. It is a representative work of the Flemish Baroque style and is held in the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows Saint Teresa receiving a gold chain and an embroidered mantle from the Virgin Mary, symbolizing a significant moment in her spiritual life. The scene is populated by angels and cherubs, emphasizing its heavenly context.

Technique & Style

Characterized by rich colors and dramatic lighting, the painting exemplifies the Flemish Baroque style. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and highlights the figures' textures and the luxurious fabrics of their robes.

History & Provenance

Created in 1639 by Gaspar de Crayer, a Flemish painter known for his Counter-Reformation altarpieces, the painting is now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gaspar de Crayer

Artist

Gaspar de Crayer

Gaspar de Crayer or Jasper de Crayer (18 November 1584 – 27 January 1669) was a Flemish painter known for his many Counter-Reformation altarpieces and portraits.