Lucas de evangelist c. 1601 - 1634

Giovanni Battista Pasqualini created this print of 'Lucas de evangelist' sometime in the early 17th century. During this period, art was deeply intertwined with the Catholic Church, and Pasqualini, like many artists, found patronage and purpose in religious subjects. Here, we see Luke the Evangelist, traditionally considered the author of the third Gospel and the Book of Acts, accompanied by his symbolic animal, the ox. What does it mean to depict a religious figure in such an intimate, almost domestic setting? Luke is not presented as a divine figure but as a scholar, deeply absorbed in his text. The ox, a symbol of sacrifice and service, rests its head affectionately against Luke's arm, creating a sense of companionship and mutual respect. This image reflects not only religious devotion but also the values of the time, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, contemplation, and the gentle power of faith. It invites us to reflect on the human side of religious figures and the profound connection between humanity, spirituality, and the natural world.