Ecstasy of Saint Teresa

Definition

The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa is a baroque sculpture created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, depicting the mystical experience of Saint Teresa of Ávila, a Spanish nun and prominent figure in the Counter-Reformation. This artwork illustrates the spiritual union between the soul and God, showcasing intense emotion and divine love through its dramatic forms and intricate details. The piece serves as an embodiment of Catholic spirituality during the Counter-Reformation, aiming to inspire viewers with a profound sense of faith and devotion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The sculpture was completed between 1647 and 1652 and is housed in the Cornaro Chapel in Rome, where it serves as the focal point of the chapel's elaborate design.
2. Bernini's use of light in the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa enhances the ethereal quality of the scene, with hidden lighting illuminating the figure and creating a sense of heavenly presence.
3. Saint Teresa is depicted in a state of rapture, with her eyes closed and her body positioned to convey a sense of both physical and spiritual transcendence.
4. The portrayal of angels in the sculpture adds to its emotional depth, symbolizing divine intervention and emphasizing the intensity of Teresa's mystical experience.
5. This work exemplifies how art was utilized as a means of Catholic propaganda during the Counter-Reformation, aiming to evoke emotional responses that would reinforce faith among believers.

Review Questions

• How does Bernini's sculpture reflect the emotional intensity associated with mysticism in the context of Counter-Reformation art?
  • Bernini's Ecstasy of Saint Teresa captures the emotional intensity of mysticism by illustrating Saint Teresa in a moment of divine rapture. The dramatic poses and expressions convey deep spiritual fervor, inviting viewers to connect emotionally with her experience. This aligns with Counter-Reformation goals by emphasizing personal faith and inspiring a deeper religious devotion among onlookers.
• In what ways did the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa serve as a form of Catholic propaganda during the Counter-Reformation?
  • The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa served as Catholic propaganda by utilizing powerful visual storytelling to communicate the Church's teachings on spirituality and divine love. Bernini’s sculpture was designed not only to celebrate Saint Teresa's holiness but also to evoke a visceral reaction from viewers, reinforcing Catholic beliefs about mysticism and devotion. The work exemplifies how art was strategically employed to inspire faith and counteract Protestant critiques.
• Evaluate how the stylistic elements of Baroque art are embodied in the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa and their significance for understanding Counter-Reformation art.
  • The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa embodies key stylistic elements of Baroque art, such as dramatic movement, emotional intensity, and intricate detail. These characteristics enhance the viewer's experience, drawing them into the spiritual narrative portrayed. Understanding these elements allows for a deeper appreciation of how Baroque art functioned as a tool for the Counter-Reformation, aiming to captivate audiences and promote Catholic doctrine through compelling visual experiences.

Related terms

Baroque Art: A style of art that emerged in the late 16th century characterized by dramatic expression, movement, and grandeur, often used to convey religious themes.

Counter-Reformation:

The period of Catholic resurgence initiated in response to the Protestant Reformation, focusing on reforming the church and reaffirming Catholic doctrine through art, education, and spirituality.

Mysticism: A spiritual practice that seeks direct communion with God or the divine, often emphasizing personal experiences and emotional connections over formal doctrines.