Saint Felix Of Cantalice 

Curator: Take a moment to consider this arresting portrait attributed to Peter Paul Rubens, entitled “Saint Felix of Cantalice.” Editor: Wow, the drama! He emerges from near darkness, doesn't he? That hefty bag he’s holding looks ready to burst; you can almost feel the weight of the world on him. Curator: It's Baroque painting at its most fervent; that tenebrism is striking! Rubens expertly manipulates the dramatic contrast of light and shadow to heighten the spiritual intensity. Editor: Absolutely. He has this piercing look that really stays with you, kind of soulful. Is he bringing something or taking something away, I wonder? And why such enormous bags and the little rosary that hangs so humbly down? Curator: That question lies, in my opinion, at the heart of the work. As a Capuchin friar, Saint Felix lived a life of extreme poverty, giving all he had to the poor. Rubens captures this in the worn features, and in these items of service—perhaps food or alms he is about to distribute. It reminds me of Mother Theresa and it captures perfectly his commitment and humility. Editor: I see it! And the details, too, are pretty telling; notice the coarse weave of his robe—simple and practical. This really shows the visual storytelling you see in Baroque art. Curator: Precisely! Note, also, the composition and brushwork at play here, very intentional I am sure. There is an intentional sense of movement, and emotional force with this piece. Rubens uses very quick strokes of oil to create volume and mass to this austere scene. Editor: I didn’t think it could have been a “quick painting job,” but, it does bring it into a “living” feeling for us, some centuries after his death. Thanks for shining a light on it for us today. Curator: It's been a pleasure; so, what's next?