The ecstasy of Saint Catherine : a work of art of Melchior Gafa

Abstract

In Largo Magnanapoli in Rome, where Via Nazionale and Via XXIV Maggio meet, there is a small church dedicated to St Catherine of Siena. Inside one can admire one of the masterpieces of Melchior Gala - the Ecstasy of Saint Catherine. This work of art adorns the main altar and two pairs of columns on either side surround this work of art. Above it there is a window with a figure of a dove, representing the holy Spirit. Further up there is a choir of four angel figures, one of which is holding a cross. A dome, which gives light to this whole artistic set-up is decorated by four figures of Dominican Saints - Thomas, Peter the Martyr, Dominic and Antonino. A painting representing God the Father, the work of Francesco Rosa, is seen decorating the cupola. On other side of the altar there are other sculptural pieces. One shows Sant'Agnese de Montepulciano and the other Santa Rosa da Lima, both works of P. Bracci. [excerpt]