Artwork

Miracles of St. Francis of Paola (Sketch)

Miracles of St. Francis of Paola (Sketch), by Peter Paul Rubens, unspecified, 1628
Miracles of St. Francis of Paola (Sketch), by Peter Paul Rubens, unspecified, 1628

Miracles of St. Francis of Paola (Sketch) is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. The Miracles of St.

About this work

Overview

The Miracles of St. Francis of Paola (Sketch) is a 1628 painting by Peter Paul Rubens, a prominent Flemish artist. It is a sketch for a larger work, showcasing Rubens's characteristic dynamic composition and vivid color.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a dramatic scene centered around St. Francis of Paola, a revered Franciscan friar. The saint is shown floating above a table, arms outstretched, as a crowd of people below react with a mix of reverence and distress.

Technique & Style

Rubens employed chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of intensity and drama. The resulting scene is chaotic, with swirling drapery and dramatic lighting that draws the viewer's eye to the central figure.

History & Provenance

The sketch is now held in the collection of the Alte Pinakothek. It reflects Rubens's work within the Flemish Baroque tradition, characterized by emotive and dynamic compositions often drawing on Christian history.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Peter Paul Rubens

Artist

Peter Paul Rubens

Sir Peter Paul Rubens ( ROO-bənz; Dutch: ; 28 June 1577 – 30 May 1640) was a Flemish artist and diplomat.