Saint Felicity 1762

Giacomo Serpotta created this depiction of Saint Felicity in the late 17th or early 18th century, from silver. During the Baroque period in Sicily, the Catholic Church played a dominant role in society, influencing not only religious life but also art, politics, and culture. Religious imagery was extremely prevalent, serving as a means of inspiring faith and conveying religious teachings to a largely illiterate population. The sculpture's existence within the sphere of religious patronage raises questions about the social conditions that shaped its production. Who commissioned it, and for what purpose? Was it intended for private devotion, or public display in a church or chapel? The answers to these questions would provide valuable insights into the artwork’s significance within its original social and institutional context. By examining historical documents, religious texts, and other cultural artifacts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork's role within the social fabric of its time.