Mystic Marriage of St Catherine (c.1575) by Paolo Veronese

The artwork “Mystic Marriage of St Catherine,” created by Paolo Veronese around 1575, is an oil painting on canvas, representative of the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement. This religious painting is housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia in Venice, Italy.

The artwork depicts a vivid and celestial scene of the mystical marriage of St. Catherine. At the center, the Virgin Mary sits serenely, holding the infant Jesus, who tenderly reaches out to St. Catherine, extending his hand in a symbolic gesture of marriage. Surrounding them are various figures, angels and attendants, who are engaged in activities that complement the central theme. The scene is set against an architectural backdrop with drapery and columns, enveloped by a heavenly cloud filled with cherubs and an ethereal light that cascades around the figures. The intricate detailing in the garments, the emotive expressions, and the dynamic composition are indicative of Veronese’s mastery and the stylistic traits of the Mannerism movement.

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