Artwork
The Triumph of Saint Ursula in Heaven and the Roman Conquerors
The Triumph of Saint Ursula in Heaven and the Roman Conquerors is an ink print by the Baroque artist Alfonso Parigi II. It dates from 1631 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Alfonso Parigi II’s 1631 etching, titled *The Triumph of Saint Ursula in Heaven and the Roman Conquerors*, presents a complex, theatrical composition. A lofty architectural framework of towering columns and an elaborately patterned ceiling dominates the upper register, while a procession of figures in period costume moves beneath, set against a sky filled with billowing clouds and swirling forms.
Subject & Meaning
The work juxtaposes the celestial celebration of Saint Ursula with the earthly presence of Roman conquerors, suggesting a narrative of spiritual victory over temporal power. The inscription of “triumph” at the bottom underscores the notion of a grand, ceremonial victory, inviting viewers to contemplate the saint’s heavenly exaltation amid worldly forces.
Technique & Style
Executed as an etching, the image relies on fine incised lines to model space and convey depth. Varying line weight creates a sense of three‑dimensionality, while cross‑hatching renders atmospheric clouds and the intricate ceiling. The artist’s handling of line emphasizes both the architectural grandeur and the dynamism of the marching figures.
History & Provenance
Created in the early seventeenth century, the print reflects the Baroque period’s interest in dramatic, staged scenes. While specific ownership records are scarce, the work is catalogued among Parigi II’s religious prints and has been referenced in studies of Italian etching practices of the 1630s.
Artist & collection
