Saint Catherine in the Clouds

Saint Catherine in the Clouds

Peter Paul Rubens

1625

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This print shows a robed figure floating in swirling clouds, holding a broken wheel and a palm branch. The person’s face is calm but intense, with wavy hair and a slight tilt to their head. Their drapery clings tightly to their body, showing every fold and curve. The broken wheel hints at suffering, but the palm branch suggests victory. Rubens often used dramatic poses and strong contrasts to draw the eye. Look up Baroque to see more art with bold movement and emotion.

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