Artwork

Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine with Saint Jerome

Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine with Saint Jerome, by Francesco Vanni, chalk, 1586
Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine with Saint Jerome, by Francesco Vanni, chalk, 1586

Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine with Saint Jerome is a chalk drawing by the Renaissance artist Francesco Vanni. It dates from 1586 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine with Saint Jerome is a 1586 drawing by Francesco Vanni, executed in black chalk on light brown paper. Characterized by its religious theme, the work demonstrates Vanni's multifaceted practice, which spanned painting, draughtsmanship, and printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts Saint Catherine and Saint Jerome in a close, mystical union. The entwining, organic lines around them may symbolize spiritual connection or divine presence, though their exact meaning in this context is not explicitly defined in the provided facts.

Technique & Style

Vanni employed black chalk to achieve deep shadows and textured rendering of the figures. The light brown paper serves as a subtle background, contrasted with the dark, expressive lines. A brown ink grid, indicating potential use as a study for a larger composition, underlies the drawing.

History & Provenance

Created in 1586, the drawing's provenance and historical ownership trail are not specified in the provided information.

Context

This work reflects Vanni's activity within the religious art genre prevalent in 16th-century Italy, particularly in Rome and Siena, where he was active. The squared paper suggests a methodical approach, possibly for reproduction or enlargement.

Legacy

The drawing's impact or influence on subsequent artistic works is not detailed in the provided facts.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francesco Vanni

Artist

Francesco Vanni

Francesco Vanni (1563 – 26 October 1610) was an Italian painter, draughtsman, printmaker, publisher and printer active in Rome and his native city of Siena.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.