Artwork
Saint Catherine of Siena Beseeching Christ to Resuscitate Her Mother
Saint Catherine of Siena Beseeching Christ to Resuscitate Her Mother is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Giovanni di Paolo. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This painting depicts Saint Catherine of Siena engaged in fervent prayer, seeking divine intervention.
About this work
History & Provenance
No further details regarding an earlier ownership chain, commissioning patron, or circumstances of creation are documented in the available sources.
Saint Catherine of Siena Beseeching Christ to Resuscitate Her Mother was created by Giovanni di Paolo in 1450. The painting entered the Robert Lehman collection and is now held as part of the Robert Lehman Collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. No further details regarding an earlier ownership chain, commissioning patron, or circumstances of creation are documented in the available sources.
Overview
This painting depicts Saint Catherine of Siena engaged in fervent prayer, seeking divine intervention. The scene unfolds within an interior setting where a figure lies on a bed, while outside, a luminous presence, likely Christ, casts light upon the scene. The artwork illustrates a moment of profound faith and a plea for a miracle, specifically the resuscitation of Catherine's mother, highlighting the saint's powerful spiritual connection.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork portrays Saint Catherine of Siena, identifiable by her red garment, at the center of a miraculous event. She kneels in supplication, her fervent prayer directed towards a divine figure, possibly Christ, who appears outside the building. The narrative centers on her appeal for the revival of her mother, a testament to her deep spiritual conviction and the popular belief in her intercessory power to bring about extraordinary divine intervention.
Context
Catherine of Siena (1347–1380) was a Dominican tertiary, mystic, and influential figure in 14th-century Italy. Renowned for her intense spiritual experiences and perceived ability to perform miracles, she became a patron saint of Italy and Europe. This painting reflects the widespread veneration of Catherine and the popular belief in her intercessory prayers, often depicted as capable of extraordinary divine intervention and healing.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Giovanni di Paolo di Grazia was an Italian painter, working primarily in Siena, becoming a prolific painter and illustrator of manuscripts, including Dante's texts.
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