Who painted St Catherine of Siena before Pope Gregory XI?

St Catherine of Siena before Pope Gregory XI was painted by Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini in 1718.

Where can I see St Catherine of Siena before Pope Gregory XI?

St Catherine of Siena before Pope Gregory XI is held by Fitzwilliam Museum.

Artwork

St Catherine of Siena before Pope Gregory XI

St Catherine of Siena before Pope Gregory XI is an oil painting by Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini. It dates from 1718 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1718 oil painting by Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini portrays a pivotal moment of interaction between St Catherine of Siena and Pope Gregory XI, set against a grand architectural backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a scene of religious and political significance, depicting St Catherine of Siena in a gesture of speech or prayer before the attentive Pope Gregory XI, flanked by two advisors engaged in their own discussion.

Technique & Style

Pellegrini blends Renaissance and Baroque elements, characterized by warm color palette (reds, browns), and the effective use of chiaroscuro to achieve depth and volume, reflecting influences from Veronese, Cortona, and Giordano.

History & Provenance

Created during Pellegrini's prolific period of European commissions, the painting is now part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection, testament to the artist's widespread influence, including on later artists like Tiepolo.