Pentecost, by Maino

by Isabella Childs January 04, 2021

the mother and the disciples of Jesus

    This is an image of the descent of the Holy Ghost on Our Lady and the apostles at Pentecost, by Spanish Baroque-era painter, Fra Juan Maino.

    In the painting, the Blessed Mother, the apostles, and a holy woman are gathered together. The Holy Ghost, surrounded by light, hovers in the air above them in the form of a large white dove. Tiny flames rest in the air above their heads.

    Our Lady sits in the center of the painting. She has white skin. She wears a pink dress and a large blue cloak. The cloak covers part of Mary’s head. The Blessed Mother gazes up at the Holy Ghost and stretches both her hands out.

    The other holy woman, probably Mary Magdalene, kneels in front of Our Lady. This woman has pale skin and long brown hair. She folds her hands and looks up at the Holy Ghost.

    The apostles are gathered around the two women in varying postures. Saint Peter, depicted with gray hair and wearing a blue robe and a yellow cloak, sits on the ground at the left side of the painting's foreground. St. Peter's silver key, symbolizing the human authority of the Church, lies on the ground as the first pope receives the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. Saint Luke the Evangelist sits recording the event, sitting at the right side of the painting's foreground, writing with a quill in a large open book.

    Purchase this digitally-restored image here.

   

    




Isabella Childs
Isabella Childs

Author


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Catholic Art Blog

Guido Reni: Expressing Devotion Through Baroque Masterpieces
Guido Reni: Expressing Devotion Through Baroque Masterpieces

by Joe Thomas October 09, 2023

Renowned Italian painter Guido Reni was born in 1575 in Bologna, Italy. Under the tutelage of the Carracci family, he developed his artistic skills and a deep appreciation for classical and Renaissance art.

Continue Reading

Zurbarán's St. Luke before the Crucifix: A Profound Spiritual Encounter
Zurbarán's St. Luke before the Crucifix: A Profound Spiritual Encounter

by Joe Thomas October 09, 2023

"St. Luke before the Crucifix" by Francisco de Zurbarán transcends its status as a mere painting; it is a spiritual odyssey captured on canvas. Zurbarán's mastery of chiaroscuro, coupled with his ability to infuse spirituality into his art, elevates this artwork to the rank of a Baroque masterpiece. It serves as a timeless reminder of art's power to connect us with the divine, inspiring deep contemplation and introspection.

Continue Reading

Exploring the Profound Emotions in
Exploring the Profound Emotions in "St. Peter Grieving" by Carl Heinrich Bloch

by Joe Thomas October 09, 2023

"St. Peter Grieving" is a testament to Bloch's ability to convey emotions through art. The overwhelming sorrow and regret depicted in St. Peter's face resonate with viewers on a profound level. Bloch's portrayal reminds us of the universal human experience of making mistakes, facing the consequences, and grappling with remorse.

Continue Reading