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Saint Helena, c1575. Creator: Francesco Morandini
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Saint Helena, c1575. Creator: Francesco Morandini
Saint Helena, c1575. St. Helena (ca. 247-ca. 327) was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (ca. 288-337), who, according to tradition, christianized the Roman Empire. Helena is shown holding the True Cross (the cross on which Christ was crucified), which she is said to have discovered in Jerusalem. Her elaborate headdress and idealized, slightly masculine facial features reveal the artist's study of Michelangelo's so-called "teste divine" ("divine heads"), admired for their great beauty
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1570s 3rd Century Beautiful Beauty Constantine I Constantine The Great Constantinian Crucifix Emperor Constantine Emperor Constantine I Flavius Valerius Constantinus Helena Helena Augusta Mannerism Mannerist Melancholic Melancholy Oil And Tempera On Panel Roman Empire Saint Constantine Saint Helena St Helena Walters Art Museum Empress Helena Head Dress Ladieswear Poppi Santo Womens Wear Womenswear
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This 16th century oil and tempera on panel painting, created by the Italian artist Francesco Morandini around 1575, depicts Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great. Helena is shown in regal attire, adorned with an elaborate headdress, holding the True Cross, which, according to tradition, she discovered in Jerusalem. Her slightly masculine facial features and idealized beauty reveal the artist's study of Michelangelo's so-called 'divine heads,' admired for their great beauty. Saint Helena, born in the 3rd century, is an important figure in Christian history as she is believed to have played a key role in the spread of Christianity within the Roman Empire. Her discovery of the True Cross is a pivotal moment in the Christian faith, symbolizing the connection between the Old and New Testaments. The painting, titled 'Saint Helena,' is a prime example of the Mannerist style, popular during the 16th century. The melancholic and contemplative expression on Helena's face, as well as the use of rich colors and intricate details, are characteristic of this artistic movement. The painting was likely commissioned by a wealthy patron, perhaps from the Poppi family in Italy, and is now a valuable heritage art piece, showcasing the fashion and artistic trends of the time.
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