Sebastiano Ricci (1659-1734) – Ecstasy of Saint Theresa Kunsthistorisches Museum

The composition presents a dramatic and theatrical scene centered around a female figure in apparent spiritual transport. The arrangement is vertically oriented, contained within a decorative architectural frame that emphasizes its elevated nature. A dense cloudscape dominates the upper portion of the canvas, serving as both backdrop and stage for the unfolding event.
At the heart of the painting, the woman reclines, her body seemingly limp yet imbued with an intense emotionality. Her head is tilted back, eyes closed, mouth slightly parted – a posture often associated with religious ecstasy or swooning. She wears a monastic habit, suggesting a life dedicated to piety and contemplation. The artist has rendered her skin pale against the darker tones of her garment, further highlighting her vulnerability and spiritual elevation.
Surrounding her are several cherubic figures, their presence contributing significantly to the overall atmosphere of divine intervention. One angel descends from above, extending an arrow towards the woman’s heart. This gesture is laden with symbolic meaning – a reference to the Saints own description of being pierced by Gods love. Other angels hover nearby, some observing with expressions of reverence and wonder, others seemingly participating in the celestial drama. Their bodies are delicately rendered, their wings shimmering within the diffused light.
Below the central figure, another woman kneels, her face turned upwards towards the scene unfolding above. Her attire is markedly different – a vibrant red garment that contrasts sharply with the muted tones of the monastic habit and the ethereal cloudscape. This distinction may signify a difference in status or role; perhaps she represents a witness to the saint’s experience, or a supplicant seeking divine favor.
At the lower edge of the composition lies an open book and what appears to be writing implements. These objects suggest intellectual pursuits and possibly the recording of spiritual experiences – hinting at the importance of documentation and interpretation within the context of religious devotion.
The lighting is dramatic and directional, emanating primarily from above and behind the central figure. This creates a strong chiaroscuro effect, emphasizing the emotional intensity of the scene and drawing attention to key elements such as the angel’s arrow and the womans face. The overall palette leans towards warm earth tones punctuated by flashes of red and gold, contributing to the painting’s opulent and devotional character.
The work conveys a sense of heightened emotion and spiritual fervor, employing theatrical staging and symbolic imagery to depict an encounter with the divine. It is likely intended to evoke feelings of awe, reverence, and perhaps even a desire for personal religious experience in the viewer.