“The Miracle of St Agnes” is a religious painting by Tintoretto, created around the year 1577. The artwork, executed in oil on canvas, measures 400 x 200 cm and is a part of the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) movement.
The artwork depicts a dramatic and heavenly scene, richly infused with religious symbolism and emotive expressions. The composition is vertical, with a clear division between the celestial and earthly realms. The upper section of the painting is populated with angels, rendered in vibrant blues and dramatic poses, embodying divine intervention. They are surrounded by an ethereal light and clouds, enhancing the sense of a miraculous event. Below them, the scene unfolds with St Agnes, a central figure highlighted by her serene yet radiant demeanor, looking upwards as if in communication with the divine beings above. She sits among a crowd, their expressions varying from awe to reverence, underscoring the miraculous nature of the event being depicted. The background further extends this holy atmosphere, with grand architectural elements that suggest a timeless and sacral space. The rich use of colors, dynamic composition, and the interplay of light and shadow are quintessential elements of Tintoretto’s style, reflecting the intricate and emotive aspects of the Mannerist movement.
