Ecstasy of Saint Teresa

Definition

The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa is a famous sculpture created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, depicting the moment of spiritual rapture experienced by Saint Teresa of Ávila, a 16th-century Spanish mystic. This work is a prime example of Baroque art, showcasing dramatic emotion, theatricality, and the blending of spiritual and physical experiences, which are essential aspects during the Counter-Reformation period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The sculpture was completed between 1647 and 1652 and is located in the Cornaro Chapel of Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome.
2. Bernini's work combines marble with theatrical elements, including natural light filtering through a window above the sculpture to enhance the spiritual experience.
3. The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa captures a moment described in Teresa's writings where she experiences divine love, represented by an angel piercing her heart with a golden arrow.
4. This piece exemplifies the Baroque tendency to create art that engages viewers emotionally and spiritually, aligning with the goals of the Counter-Reformation.
5. Bernini's ability to evoke emotion through intricate details and dramatic compositions made him a leading figure in Baroque sculpture and established his influence on future generations of artists.

Review Questions

• How does the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa reflect the goals of the Counter-Reformation in terms of artistic expression?
  • The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa embodies the goals of the Counter-Reformation by using art as a means to inspire deep religious faith and emotional engagement. Bernini's dramatic representation of Saint Teresa's mystical experience connects viewers with the divine, emphasizing the importance of spirituality during this period. The sculpture’s theatrical qualities serve to draw people into an intimate encounter with faith, fulfilling the Catholic Church’s aim to counter Protestant critiques by reaffirming the emotional depth of Catholicism.
• Discuss how Bernini's techniques in the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa contribute to its emotional impact and viewer engagement.
  • Bernini's techniques in the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa significantly enhance its emotional impact through his masterful use of marble to create textures that suggest movement and life. The dynamic composition draws the viewer’s eye upward toward the angel, while the subtle play of light illuminates key features, enhancing the sense of divine intervention. Additionally, Bernini’s intricate details, such as the drapery and expressions on Saint Teresa's face, invite viewers into her profound moment of ecstasy, effectively engaging them with her spiritual experience.
• Evaluate how the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa has influenced perceptions of Baroque art and its connection to spirituality over time.
  • The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa has profoundly influenced perceptions of Baroque art as it encapsulates the movement’s dedication to merging spirituality with dramatic visual experiences. This sculpture not only showcases Bernini's exceptional talent but also serves as a pivotal example of how Baroque artists sought to convey complex spiritual themes through emotional depth and theatricality. Over time, it has become a benchmark for understanding how art can express personal faith experiences, impacting not only artists but also scholars and audiences who seek connections between art and spirituality within the broader context of religious practices.

Related terms

Counter-Reformation:

A period of Catholic resurgence initiated in response to the Protestant Reformation, characterized by reforms in church practices and an emphasis on religious art to inspire faith.

Baroque Art:

An artistic style prevalent from the late 16th century to the early 18th century, marked by dramatic expressions, bold use of color, and a tendency to evoke emotional responses.

Caravaggio:

An influential Baroque painter known for his realistic depiction of human figures and dramatic use of light and shadow, which paved the way for emotional engagement in art.