The Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine

The Christ Child places a ring on Saint Catherine's finger in this Mystic Marriage at Apsley House, painted around 1550 and attributed to Parmigianino or his circle. Parmigianino, the precocious genius of Emilian Mannerism who died at thirty-seven, created an aesthetic of extreme elegance characterized by elongated proportions, serpentine poses, and an otherworldly refinement. His devotional paintings transform sacred subjects into visions of unearthly grace.

The figures display the characteristic Parmigianino elongation, with slender necks and tapering fingers that create an impression of aristocratic refinement. The smooth, polished surface treatment gives the flesh an alabaster quality. Soft, cool colors and flowing drapery contribute to the overall effect of elegant otherworldliness that defines his devotional style.