Artwork

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, by Georg Wilhelm Neunhertz, ink, 1727
The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, by Georg Wilhelm Neunhertz, ink, 1727

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Georg Wilhelm Neunhertz. It dates from 1727 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in gray ink: GWF 9.Hertz.fec: Ao.1727.; on verso inbrown ink: (notations of a contract)

About this work

Overview

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria is a drawing by Georg Wilhelm Neunhertz, created in 1727 using pen and black ink over black chalk on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a dramatic scene centered on a woman standing on a raised platform, surrounded by figures in flowing robes, amidst a chaotic crowd in a grand, crumbling space, likely representing the disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.

Technique & Style

Executed in a sketchy style, the drawing employs quick lines to convey movement and emotion, with heavy shading adding depth to the scene. The visible texture of the laid paper and the lack of smoothed details contribute to the overall expressive effect.

Context

This drawing is characteristic of the Baroque movement, known for dramatic and dynamic compositions, as seen in its chaotic crowd and swirling lines.

Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria
Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Federico Zuccaro

Artist & collection

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria?

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria was painted by Georg Wilhelm Neunhertz in 1727.

Where can I see The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria?

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria?

The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria?

Museum-quality prints of The Disputation of Saint Catherine of Alexandria are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.