Temptation of Saint Anthony
Johann Liss·1624
Historical Context
The Temptation of Saint Anthony — the Egyptian Desert Father beset by demonic visions during his years of solitary asceticism — was among the most dramatically fertile subjects in European devotional and fantastic painting, from Bosch through Callot to Salvator Rosa. Liss's treatment from 1624 brings his characteristically animated, painterly approach to this tradition of wild spiritual combat between the saint and his demonic assailants in the Egyptian wilderness.
Technical Analysis
Liss populates the composition with demonic figures pressing in upon the kneeling Anthony from all sides. His rapid, energetic brushwork suits the chaotic subject, and warm, flickering lights suggest the infernal nature of the tempting visions against the darkness of the desert setting.
