Artwork

Comunión de Santa Rosa de Viterbo

Comunión de Santa Rosa de Viterbo, by Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante, oil, 1667
Comunión de Santa Rosa de Viterbo, by Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante, oil, 1667

Comunión de Santa Rosa de Viterbo is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante. It dates from 1667 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Comunión de Santa Rosa de Viterbo is a 1667 oil painting by Spanish Baroque artist Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante, depicting a religious scene from Roman Catholic tradition.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a Eucharistic event centered on Saint Rose of Viterbo, featuring a bearded figure (likely a priest) with chalice and plate, accompanied by the saint in a dark robe, flanked by two winged children (angels), set against a sky with additional celestial figures.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, the work exhibits characteristics of the early Baroque Italian movement, marked by a predominantly dark color palette with contrasting light emanating through the cloudy background, typical of the dramatic lighting prevalent in Baroque art.

History & Provenance

Created in 1667 by Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante, a Córdoba-born artist trained under Francisco Ricci in Madrid and associated with the Spanish Court until his death in 1669, the painting is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection.

Context

As a product of the Spanish Golden Age's Baroque period, the painting reflects the era's emphasis on religious themes and dramatic visual elements, aligning with the artistic and religious sentiments of 17th-century Spain.

Legacy

While specific impact details are not provided, the painting's inclusion in the Museo del Prado suggests its recognition as a notable work of Spanish Baroque art, contributing to the broader understanding and appreciation of Frías y Escalante's oeuvre.

Artist & collection

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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