Artwork

Holy Trinity

Holy Trinity, by Theodoor van Thulden, 1647
Holy Trinity, by Theodoor van Thulden, 1647

Holy Trinity is a drawing by the Baroque artist Theodoor van Thulden. It dates from 1647 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1961.169

About this work

Overview

Holy Trinity is a drawing by Flemish artist Theodoor van Thulden, created circa 1647. Characterized by soft yellows, blues, and strategic use of chiaroscuro, the work depicts celestial figures in a heavenly setting.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing represents the Holy Trinity, with two dominant figures (likely God the Father and Jesus Christ) distinguished by a globe and a staff with red cloth, respectively. Surrounding cherubs amplify the divine theme.

Technique & Style

Van Thulden employed chiaroscuro to create a glowing effect on the figures' faces and attire, contrasting them against softer, gray-blue cloud backgrounds. The composition balances strength and serenity.

History & Provenance

Created around 1647 by Theodoor van Thulden, the drawing is now part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. Van Thulden's diverse career spanned Antwerp, Paris, and 's-Hertogenbosch.

Context

Reflecting Baroque influences prevalent during Van Thulden's time, Holy Trinity combines religious subject matter with expressive lighting, typical of Flemish artistic traditions of the 17th century.

Legacy

As part of Van Thulden's oeuvre, Holy Trinity contributes to the understanding of 17th-century Flemish art's thematic and technical evolution, particularly in religious and celestial representations.

The Trinity Surrounded by Angels
The Trinity Surrounded by Angels, Bartholomäus Ignaz Weiss

Artist & collection

Portrait of Theodoor van Thulden

Artist

Theodoor van Thulden

Theodoor van Thulden (9 August 1606 – 12 July 1669) was a Flemish painter, draughtsman and engraver born in 's-Hertogenbosch in the duchy of Brabant.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Holy Trinity?

Holy Trinity was painted by Theodoor van Thulden in 1647.

Where can I see Holy Trinity?

Holy Trinity is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Holy Trinity?

Holy Trinity is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Holy Trinity?

Museum-quality prints of Holy Trinity are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.