Verschijning van Filippo Neri aan een non 1630 - 1641

Luca Ciamberlano created this print, "Verschijning van Filippo Neri aan een non," in the early 17th century. Immediately, the structural arrangement commands attention. We see a composition divided into earthly and divine realms, the lower section grounded by the figure of a kneeling nun. This contrasts sharply with the upper portion, an ethereal space filled with clouds, figures and divine light. Ciamberlano uses line and form to build a visual hierarchy. The lines of sight from the earthly figures converge towards Filippo Neri, who is bathed in radiant light, positioned at the apex of the spiritual realm. The contrast between the detailed rendering of the nun and the more stylized, less defined figures in the clouds also suggests a nuanced understanding of visual semiotics. The sharp lines used to depict the nun render her presence as immediate and tangible, whereas the softer treatment of the heavenly figures positions them as allegorical. These artistic choices emphasize the print’s narrative and spiritual message.