De heilige Antonius van Padua 1712 - 1786

Giovanni Marco Pitteri created this print of Saint Anthony of Padua using engraving techniques. Consider how printmaking served as a crucial tool in disseminating religious imagery and reinforcing the Church's cultural influence in 18th-century Italy. The choice of Saint Anthony, known for his devotion to the poor and his eloquent preaching, connects to the values upheld by religious institutions of the time. His depiction emphasizes piety, reinforcing the Church's teachings and the importance of personal devotion. The use of light and shadow creates a contemplative mood, inviting viewers to reflect on their faith. To fully understand this artwork, research into the cultural and religious context of 18th-century Italy is essential, including the role of the Church and the lives of ordinary people. Art history reminds us that art is always contingent on social and institutional contexts.