Apostle (Saint Matthew?)

1730s

Not on view

This vigorously modeled figure portrays an Apostle, possibly Saint Matthew. He holds an open book, his attribute as the author of one of the New Testament gospels and presses his fingers over his heart expressing his devotion to God. Covered by dramatic, swirling draperies, Matthew’s emaciated nakedness signifies his rejection of worldly things in the service of heaven.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Apostle (Saint Matthew?)
Date: 1730s
Culture: Italian
Medium: Terracotta
Dimensions: Overall (confirmed): 17 1/2 × 8 5/8 × 6 7/8 in. (44.5 × 21.9 × 17.5 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Jane and Raphael Bernstein, 2013
Object Number: 2013.240
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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