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The Trinity

Adam von Bartsch

1782

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Romanticism 18th Century

Dominant colour

The Trinity is a 1782 by Adam von Bartsch, a Romanticism work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Adam von Bartsch
When & what style?: 1782 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This round picture shows a busy sky scene with lots of people and angels. Some figures float on clouds, while others stand or kneel below. One person holds a cross, another plays a violin, and a few cherubs look on. The whole scene is drawn in soft brown lines with light shading, giving it a dreamy feel. Notice how the artist packed so many figures into one space—everyone has a role, even the smallest cherubs. The mix of heavenly beings and musical instruments suggests a story about music and faith. If you like this, check out chiaroscuro to see how light and shadow create drama in art.