Description
The painting St Narcissus in Glory by the artist Franz Anton Maulbertsch is an 18th century masterpiece that is currently in the Hungarian National Gallery in Budapest. This work is a perfect example of the baroque style, characterized by exuberance and drama.
The composition of the painting is impressive, with the saint Narcissus floating in the air surrounded by angels and cherubs. The figure of the saint is the focal point of the work, with his serene face and his naked body that seems to be floating in the air. The angels and cherubs are arranged in a kind of arc that surrounds the saint, creating a sensation of movement and dynamism.
Color is another interesting aspect of this work. Maulbertsch uses a rich and vibrant color palette, with shades of blue, red, green and gold creating a sense of opulence and wealth. Angels and cherubs are dressed in brightly colored robes, while Saint Narcissus is surrounded by a golden light that makes him appear divine.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. It was commissioned by the Church of Saint Nicholas in Bratislava, Slovakia, in 1771 and completed in 1773. The work was very well received by the religious community and became one of the artist's most famous works.
There are some little-known aspects of this work that make it even more interesting. For example, Maulbertsch is said to have used his own image to create the figure of Saint Narcissus. Additionally, the work has been the subject of some controversy in the past due to its depiction of a nude saint.
In summary, the painting St Narcissus in Glory by the artist Franz Anton Maulbertsch is an impressive work of art that combines the Baroque style with a dynamic composition and vibrant color palette. Its history and some little-known aspects make it even more fascinating for art lovers.