Triumph of St. Ignatius of Loyola

Triumph of St. Ignatius of Loyola

Andrea Pazzo’s Triumph of St. Ignatius of Loyola ( painted on the Sant’Ignazio church‘s ceiling, located in Rome, Italy is considered to be Pazzo’s best work ever. Unfortunately the date of which the painting on the ceiling was completed is unknown, but according to absoluteastronomy.com we can estimate that it was painted sometime between 1685 and 1694.

Pazzo’s paintings were most likely influenced by The Council of Trent. The Council of Trent took place in Italy, where Pazzo spent most of his life, and also the council mainly concered the churches in Italy. Pazzo’s paintings were widely known in the churches, and this painting in specific was painted on the ceiling of a church, which makes it obvious that there was a most definite connection between Pazzo and the churches during this time period.

Because the picture above is so small it is very hard to see the little details, but if you are able to see a bigger copy you can see that Pazzo put effort into every little detail, including facial expressions and muscules. Also, the four corners with the pilar each represents a continent; Africa, America, Asia, and one that I could not identify, but I am assuming that it is Europe. To me the most appealing thing about the painting was that it was done on flat ceiling. Looking at the painting you would think that the ceiling was dome-shaped, but no. It is all technique that allowed Pazzo to create the illusion of depth. Also, I liked the vibrant colors used in the painting. I think depending on who looks at the painting, it can be very inspiring. Though the people in the painting look like they are struggling, they all look lively, (and the sky is blue.)  Then In the center, there is Ignatius standing proud, with confidence. To me, that screams “Everything’s going to be ok. The sun is still shining and tomorrow will come.”

4 comments October 3, 2009