Mass of St John of Mathaa 1666

"Mass of St John of Mathaa" (1666) by Spanish artist Juan Carreno de Miranda is a large-scale painting depicting the celebration of the Mass. It is a prime example of Baroque religious art, showcasing dramatic chiaroscuro and dynamic composition. The painting depicts a scene of intense religious fervor, with figures arranged in a swirling, upward motion towards the divine. The celestial figures above, including God the Father and Jesus Christ, are bathed in golden light, contrasting with the more earthly scene below, where the priest elevates the Host. This painting, now residing in the Louvre, Paris, is a testament to Miranda's mastery of the Baroque style and his ability to capture the intensity of religious faith in a captivating composition.