The Vision of St. John of the Cross 1645 - 1716

Charles de la Fosse created this drawing, "The Vision of St. John of the Cross", using black and red chalk with white heightening on paper. The sketch depicts a moment of profound religious experience, reflecting the intense spirituality of the 17th century. Here, St. John kneels, gazing up at Christ who is carrying the cross. Floating among the clouds, Christ is surrounded by angels, creating a scene of heavenly encounter. De la Fosse captures the emotional intensity of divine vision, a common theme in Counter-Reformation art. It's interesting to consider how artists negotiate the representation of religious figures, often drawing from their cultural context. The image reflects the traditional European portrayal of Christ and the saints, which may invite questions about cultural appropriation and the diversity of religious experience. This piece, while deeply personal, also touches on broader issues of faith, representation, and cultural identity.