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Temptation of St. Anthony
StyleRenaissance
GenreReligious
Artwork Details
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This painting by Paolo Veronese altarpiece in 1552, commissioned by Cardinal Ercole Gonzaga for Mantua Cathedral. The work depicts bare-breasted female figures representing temptations endured by Saint Anthony Abbot. Veronese cleverly gave the beautiful maiden talons instead of fingernails as the only clue she's really a demon.
The painting measures 198 x 151 cm and exemplifies Veronese's Mannerist style with elegant figures and rich colors. Originally painted in situ at the cathedral, it later moved to France. The subtle demonic details show Veronese's wit. Now at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen in France.
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About Temptation of St. Anthony
Paolo Veronese (1528-1588) created this work in 1552. The Venetian painter was known for large-scale religious paintings with elegant figures and brilliant color in the late Renaissance style.
The work shows Saint Anthony resisting demonic temptations disguised as beautiful women. Veronese cleverly painted talons instead of fingernails on the maiden's hand, the only clue revealing her true demonic nature.
Cardinal Ercole Gonzaga commissioned it for Mantua Cathedral in 1552. Veronese painted it in situ at the cathedral. It later moved to France and now hangs at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen.
The oil on canvas measures 198 x 151 cm (about 6.5 x 5 feet). This large altarpiece size was typical for Veronese, who specialized in monumental religious compositions for churches.
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