Marriage at Cana 1660

Mattia Preti painted ‘Marriage at Cana’ in oil on canvas, using traditional materials and methods associated with the fine arts. The materiality of the paint itself influences the work’s appearance, with Preti using broad brushstrokes to build up layers of color and texture. Look closely, and you can almost feel the roughness of the canvas beneath. The processes Preti employs imbue the artwork with social significance, reflecting the cultural values and beliefs of his time. The use of oil paint, a medium favored by the elite, speaks to Preti's position within the art world and his relationship to the wealthy patrons who commissioned his work. But consider, too, the labor involved in producing a painting of this scale. From grinding pigments to preparing the canvas, each step requires skill and effort. By emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context, we can gain a deeper understanding of the full meaning of Preti's artwork.