Artwork
Holy Trinity

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
- Credit line
- Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
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.
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Artist & collection
Artist
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.


















