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Saint Paul of Thebes tempted by a demon, after Magnasco

After Alessandro Magnasco Italian
ca. 1720–30
Not on view
Born around 227 in the Thebaid region of Egypt, Paul of Thebes is regarded as the first Christian hermit. Here he is shown partly naked, meditating on a cross, and seated outdoors, emphasizing his poverty and commitment to spiritual life. The skull in the lower left corner is a reminder of the transience of earthly existence. In the upper section, a demon in the guise of a sensuous woman attempts to distract him from his devotion. The saint’s elon-gated figure and the loose and dense style of etching reflect his familiarity with the prints of Giovanni Bene-detto Castiglione

Gazalis made only two etchings, both based on designs by Magnasco. The only other known impression of this print is the Civica Raccolta Bertarelli in Milan.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Saint Paul of Thebes tempted by a demon, after Magnasco
  • Artist: Bartolommeo Gazalis (Italian, born Genoa, active Milan, 1720–30)
  • Artist: After Alessandro Magnasco (Italian, Genoa 1667–1749 Genoa)
  • Date: ca. 1720–30
  • Medium: Etching
  • Dimensions: Sheet: 12 7/8 × 8 1/4 in. (32.7 × 21 cm)
  • Classification: Prints
  • Credit Line: A. Hyatt Mayor Purchase Fund, Marjorie Phelps Starr Bequest, 2015
  • Object Number: 2015.513
  • Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

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