Who painted Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet?

Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet was painted by Peter Candid in 1622.

Where can I see Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet?

Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet?

Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.

Artwork

Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet

Peter Candid , 1622

Der hl. Karl Borromäus im Gebet is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Peter Candid. It dates from 1622 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. Created in 1622, the work portrays Saint Charles Borromeo kneeling in prayer, surrounded by a host of angels and cherubs.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1622, the work portrays Saint Charles Borromeo kneeling in prayer, surrounded by a host of angels and cherubs. The composition is set against a dramatic sky of clouds and darkness, employing strong contrasts of light and shadow to emphasize the saint’s devotion. The painting is part of the collection of the Alte Pinakothek in Munich.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, Saint Charles Borromeo, is shown with clasped hands, embodying the Counter‑Reformation emphasis on personal piety and intercession. The attendant angels and cherubs, some playing instruments or bearing symbolic objects, reinforce the sanctity of the moment and suggest heavenly approval of the saint’s supplications.

Technique & Style

Candid’s handling of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, with illuminated forms emerging from a tenebrous background. The figures are rendered with the elongated proportions typical of Mannerist influence, while the rich coloration and dynamic poses anticipate the exuberance of early Baroque painting.

History & Provenance

Born in Flanders, Peter Candid (also known as Pietro Candido) trained in Italy before entering the service of the Bavarian dukes William V and Maximilian I. After its creation for a Bavarian patron, the painting entered the holdings of the Alte Pinakothek, where it remains on public display.

Context

The image reflects the broader Flemish Baroque movement, which merged Northern detail with Italian compositional drama. Its devotional subject aligns with the post‑Council of Trent directives that encouraged clear, emotionally resonant religious imagery to inspire the faithful.