The Vision of St. John of the Cross

Art Historical Context

Discover the ethereal "The Vision of St. of the Cross," a drawing attributed to French Baroque artist Charles de La Fosse and Spanish Baroque painter Antonio de Pereda Created in an undated work (n.d.), this piece captures a mystical religious vision through intricate black chalk over red chalk, heightened with white on gray paper a sophisticated technique popular in 17th-century Europe for preparatory studies. Measuring 13 1/4 x 9 5/8 inches, it resides in the Metropolitan Museum of's Drawings and Prints department, acquired through the David L. Klein Jr. Memorial Foundation Inc. Gift in 1981. The composition evokes the profound spirituality of St. John of the Cross, the 16th-century Spanish mystic known for his ecstatic visions. Tags highlight key elements: angels swirling in divine light, the cross symbolizing sacrifice, Jesus as the central apparition, and Saint John the Baptist, blending biblical and Counter-Reformation themes of redemption and divine revelation. De La Fosse's fluid, Rubens-inspired draftsmanship pairs with Pereda's dramatic tenebrism, creating dynamic contrasts of light and shadow that heighten the emotional intensity. This drawing exemplifies Baroque artistry's focus on religious fervor, bridging French and Spanish traditions during a time when such visions inspired grand altarpieces. A gem for visitors, it invites contemplation of faith's transcendent power through the artists' masterful chalk work.