Artwork
Saint Catherine
Saint Catherine is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Cecco Bravo. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Catherine of Alexandria, a central figure in religious art. As a religious work, it focuses on the saint as the main subject, embodying the traditional iconography associated with her martyrdom and wisdom. The representation serves to honor the historical and hagiographical figure of Catherine, consistent with the genre of religious painting.
History & Provenance
No further details regarding its original commission or intermediate ownership history prior to its museum acquisition are provided in the available records.
The painting Saint Catherine was created in 1650 by the Italian artist Cecco Bravo, also known as Francesco Montelatici. Executed in oil on panel, the work depicts Catherine of Alexandria and is classified as a piece of religious art. The artwork currently resides in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it is maintained as part of their holdings.
No further details regarding its original commission or intermediate ownership history prior to its museum acquisition are provided in the available records.
The work Saint Catherine by Cecco Bravo is held in the Rijksmuseum, where it is listed under inventory number SK-A-1155. It was created in 1650 as an oil paint on panel, depicting Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The painting has been part of the museum's collection since its acquisition and was featured in the 2019 exhibition 'Dutch and Flemish Masterpieces from the Rijksmuseum' at the Rijksmuseum.
Overview
Created around 1650 by the Florentine painter Francesco Montelatici, known as Cecco Bravo, this oil on canvas portrays Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The work is part of the early Italian Baroque repertoire and is presently in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
Technique & Style
Bravo employs chiaroscuro, juxtaposing deep shadows with bright illumination to model the saint’s form and give the composition a three‑dimensional presence. The warm, earthy background enhances the contrast and focuses attention on the illuminated figure.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Cecco Bravo (15 November 1601 – December 1661) was an Italian painter of the Florentine Baroque school. His true name was Francesco Montelatici.
