The Ecstasy of St. Theresa

Artist: Bernini
Title: The Saint Ecstacy of St. Theresa
Date: 1652
Medium: marble statue
Provence: Rome
Source: smarthistory.khanacademy.org

Analysis: this statue utilizes many of the elements of art in one piece. The form uses irregular shapes and uneven lines. Straight lines, reaching for the ceiling, on top represent the rays of heaven. The contrast between the perfectly starlight rays and the organically shaped human figures shows differences. The texture appears to be smooth yet rough where the fabric is folded multiple times. The angel is slightly smaller in proportion to the woman on the ground looking up. The angel is not meant to be enormous and fully take up a space like angels usually do.

Description: This is a sculpture of St. Theresa being blinded by a heavenly vision. An angel has come down to marvel at the awe-inspiring, emotional scene from the light rays. The statue itself is white, but the rays are pure gold. They are hovering on a cloud and St. Theresa has folds of clothes around her.

Interpretation and judgement: The carving of the shape gives the staute a very heavenly feel. When you look and the expression on both of the figures faces, you know the pain and emotion that was happening in that moment. I admired the light rays coming down on the angel because it shows the grace and beauty in contrast to the struggling saint. The saint was having a vision of heaven when thie angel came down to light of heaven came o help her