Who painted St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi?

St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi was painted by Giuseppe Cesari in 1650.

Where can I see St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi?

St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi?

St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi is associated with High Baroque Italian.

Artwork

St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi

Giuseppe Cesari , 1650

St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi is an oil painting by the High Baroque Italian artist Giuseppe Cesari. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

St Clare with the Scene of the Siege of Assisi is a 17th-century oil painting attributed to Giuseppe Cesari, a prominent artist known as Cavaliere d'Arpino. Created around 1650, it is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting juxtaposes a tumultuous battle scene with a serene figure, likely St Clare, observing from a distance. The chaotic foreground, set against a castle wall, contrasts with the calm landscape and sky in the background, blending historical narrative with religious subject matter.

Technique & Style

Cesari's work exemplifies the High Baroque style, while retaining elements of Mannerism, such as refined stylization. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes contrasts between light and dark, adds depth to the dramatic scene unfolding in the foreground.

History & Provenance

Giuseppe Cesari was a leading artist in Rome, enjoying papal patronage and running a significant studio where notable artists, including Caravaggio, trained. His work reflects the artistic and cultural currents of his time, influenced by his connections to the papal court.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giuseppe Cesari

Giuseppe Cesari (14 February 1568 – 3 July 1640) was an Italian Mannerist painter, also named Il Giuseppino and called Cavaliere d'Arpino, because he was created Knight of the Supreme Order of Christ by his patron Pope Clement VIII.