Artwork
St. Onuphrius
St. Onuphrius is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Jusepe de Ribera. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. St.
About this work
Overview
St. Onuphrius is a 1621 painting by Jusepe de Ribera, a Spanish artist active in Naples during the Baroque period.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts an ascetic saint, identified as St. Onuphrius, in contemplation. The saint is shown as an older man with a bald head and long white beard, his arms crossed over his chest.
Technique & Style
Ribera's use of chiaroscuro creates a strong contrast between light and dark, giving the figure a three-dimensional appearance. The dark background emphasizes the saint's pale skin and wrinkles, while the lighting creates deep shadows, highlighting the artist's mastery of light and realism.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the Alte Pinakothek collection. It was created during Ribera's time in Naples, where he became a prominent figure in the city's artistic scene.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jusepe de Ribera (Valencian: ; baptised 17 February 1591 – 3 November 1652) was a Spanish painter and printmaker.
