St. Agnes is Received into Heaven 

Giovanni Battista Gaulli created “St. Agnes is Received into Heaven” during the Baroque period, a time when the Catholic Church sought to reaffirm its power through emotionally charged and visually stunning art. In this painting we see St. Agnes, a virgin martyr, ascending to heaven, surrounded by a swirling vortex of angels and saints. Gaulli uses the female body to communicate notions of purity and piety, reflecting the era’s emphasis on women's roles within the context of religious devotion. Yet, Agnes's strength as a young woman who chose death over compromising her faith also challenges traditional gender roles, hinting at female agency within a patriarchal society. Historically, Agnes's story has resonated deeply, particularly with women facing societal pressures. This portrayal offers a moment to reflect on the historical expectations placed on women, and how these expectations intersect with themes of sacrifice, faith, and empowerment.