The Vision of Saint Benedict 1740

Francesco de Mura’s “The Vision of Saint Benedict” (1740) is a black chalk drawing depicting the moment Saint Benedict experiences a vision. In the center of the composition, Saint Benedict stands on a platform with a group of people gathered around him, his gaze directed upwards. The upper half of the drawing is filled with angels flying and a depiction of God in the clouds. This drawing is a preparatory study for a fresco by de Mura and it showcases his expertise in depicting religious scenes with dramatic gestures and expressive figures. The drawing is currently on view in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.