The Virgin with four saints: the archangel Michael, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Apollonia, and Saint John the Evangelist. (1830) by F. Rosaspina - Public Domain Catholic Drawing
This artwork is a classical engraving that depicts a religious scene from Christian iconography. The central figure is the Virgin Mary, seated and holding the infant Jesus, which is a common motif in Christian art known as the Madonna and Child. Surrounding them are several saints.
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The composition is symmetrical and balanced, with a clear distinction between the earthly realm at the bottom and the heavenly realm at the top, as indicated by the presence of angels in flight. The use of arches and the positioning of the figures suggest a structured hierarchy, emphasizing the importance of the central figures.
The style of the engraving, with its attention to detail and use of shading to create depth, is typical of European art from the Renaissance onwards, when such techniques were widely used to create a sense of realism.
The artist has signed the work at the bottom left, but the signature is not entirely legible in this image. However, the quality of the work suggests that it was created by a skilled engraver who was well-versed in the artistic conventions of their time.
Overall, this piece is a fine example of religious art intended for devotional contemplation or as part of a larger narrative within a Christian context.
