Blessed Francis Venimbeni Celebrating Mass for souls in Purgatory 1750 - 1799

This pen and brown ink drawing by Giuseppe Cades depicts Blessed Francis Venimbeni celebrating mass for the souls in purgatory. The drawing, executed in the late 18th century, showcases the intricate details of the scene, including the dramatic figures of angels and the figures in purgatory, and the architectural setting of the altar. The piece exemplifies Cades’ skill in capturing the devotional and spiritual aspects of a religious subject, while highlighting his talent in depicting the human figure and its interplay with the surrounding environment.