Artwork
Sfântul Ilie
Sfântul Ilie is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the Romanian Peasant Museum.
About this work
Overview
The work titled “Sfântul Ilie” is an image depicting a vibrant, densely composed scene dominated by reds, greens, and golds. Central to the composition is a figure in a red robe seated in a blazing chariot drawn by winged horses, while angels hover above and smaller figures look upward below. The surrounding border is filled with floral motifs and swirling decorative patterns.
Subject & Meaning
The inscription “Sfântul Ilie” identifies the central figure as Saint Elijah, known in Romanian as Saint Elias. The fiery chariot and winged horses reference the biblical account of Elijah’s ascent to heaven, a motif commonly used to convey his prophetic authority and divine favor.
Technique & Style
Rendered as a drawing, the piece relies on bold color contrasts and intricate ornamental borders to create visual intensity. The use of vivid reds and golds emphasizes the celestial fire, while the detailed floral and scrollwork framing reflects a decorative tradition often associated with Eastern European religious art.
History & Provenance
No specific information about the artist, date of creation, or ownership history is provided. The work is catalogued simply as an image, suggesting it may be part of a larger collection of devotional illustrations.
Context
Depictions of Saint Elijah’s heavenly ascent appear frequently in Orthodox iconography, where the narrative is employed to illustrate the saint’s transition from earthly ministry to heavenly glory. The inclusion of angels and the elaborate border aligns the piece with liturgical art intended for contemplation or instructional purposes.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
