Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > Cleveland
The Fall of Simon Magus, c. 1745-50 (oil on canvas)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
The Fall of Simon Magus, c. 1745-50 (oil on canvas)
499991 The Fall of Simon Magus, c.1745-50 (oil on canvas) by Batoni, Pompeo Girolamo (1708-87) (studio of); 207x133 (framed) 183x108 (unframed) cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Saints Peter and Paul came to Rome to win converts to Christianity soon after Christs death, while Simon Magus, claiming to be the son of God, attempted to prove his divinity by flying. Due to Saint Peters prayers, the demons supporting Simon abandoned him and he plummeted to his death.This work is either a study for or a copy of a huge altarpiece commissioned in 1746 for Saint Peters Basilica at the Vatican. Because of the humidity in Saint Peter s, which quickly ruined paintings, the work was to have been translated into a massive mosaic. However, for reasons that remain unclear, Batonis mosaic was never created.
); John L. Severance Fund; Italian, out of copyright
Media ID 22911446
© John L. Severance Fund / Bridgeman Images
Demon Demons Falling Miracle Saint Paul Saint Peter Stairs Steps
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Europe
> Italy
> Lazio
> Rome
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Cleveland
> Europe
> Vatican City
> Paintings
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Byzantine Period Egyptian
The Fall of Simon Magus
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating oil painting by Pompeo Girolamo Batoni, depicting a dramatic moment in religious history. The scene showcases Saints Peter and Paul in Rome, where they sought to spread Christianity after the death of Christ. In contrast, Simon Magus claimed to be the son of God and attempted to prove his divinity through flight. The artwork captures the pivotal moment when Saint Peter's prayers caused the demons supporting Simon to abandon him, resulting in his tragic fall from grace. The composition skillfully portrays the chaos and tension surrounding this supernatural event. Originally intended as an altarpiece for Saint Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, this painting was meant to be transformed into a massive mosaic due to concerns about humidity damaging traditional paintings. However, for reasons that remain unclear, Batoni's mosaic was never created. The artist's attention to detail is evident in every brushstroke, bringing life and emotion to each character present. From the flying female figure representing Simon Magus' failed attempt at divinity to the onlookers who bear witness with awe-struck expressions, every element contributes to the narrative power of this piece. "The Fall of Simon Magus" serves as both a historical record and an artistic masterpiece that continues to captivate viewers today. Its presence within Cleveland Museum of Art allows visitors an opportunity not only appreciate its technical brilliance but also reflect on themes such as faith versus deception and divine intervention amidst human ambition.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
