The Vision of St. Hubert 1728 - 1800

Vittorio Amedeo Rapous created "The Vision of St. Hubert," a drawing using pen, brown ink, and watercolor, at an unknown date. During the 18th century, when Rapous was alive, the aristocracy used art to communicate the legitimacy of their power through visual displays. This work reflects both class and gender norms, representing the legend of St. Hubert, a nobleman who became the patron saint of hunters. The drawing captures the moment Hubert encounters a vision of a crucifix between a stag's antlers, leading to his conversion. The emotional intensity of this scene reflects the social expectations of religious piety. The male figures—Hubert, his horse, and hunting dog—show the traditional association of men with the hunt. Yet, there is a challenge to the standard narratives. The stag, usually a symbol of masculine power, becomes a vehicle for spiritual revelation, offering a critique of traditional aristocratic values. Rapous presents not just a religious experience but a personal transformation, inviting us to consider the intersections of faith, identity, and social status.