Saint Chrysogonus borne to heaven by angels
Guercino·1622
Historical Context
This painting of Saint Chrysogonus borne to heaven by angels, dated 1622, is held in the UK Government Art Collection. Saint Chrysogonus was an early Christian martyr venerated particularly in northern Italy, where his cult was associated with Aquileia and later Venice. The date of 1622 places this work in the most dynamic and experimental phase of Guercino's career, shortly after his triumphant trip to Rome (1621-1623) where he worked for Pope Gregory XV and painted his masterpiece, the Aurora ceiling fresco in the Casino Ludovisi.
Technical Analysis
The ascending composition creates a dramatic upward thrust as angels bear the saint heavenward, rendered with the bold chiaroscuro and energetic brushwork of Guercino's early Roman-period style. The dynamic diagonal arrangement and rich, warm palette reflect his pre-classical manner at its most vigorous.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the dramatic upward thrust as angels bear Saint Chrysogonus heavenward with bold chiaroscuro and energetic brushwork.
- ◆Look at the dynamic diagonal arrangement and rich, warm palette reflecting Guercino's pre-classical manner at its most vigorous.
- ◆Observe this 1622 work from the most experimental phase of his career, shortly after his triumphant trip to Rome where he painted the Aurora ceiling fresco.
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