Gospel in Art: Feast of Saint Anthony the Great

The Temptation of Saint Anthony, by Michelangelo,1487-1488 © Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 17 January 2025
Mark 2:1-12

When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralysed man carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralysed man lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralysed man, 'Son, your sins are forgiven.' Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, 'Why does this man speak like that? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?' And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, 'Why do you question these things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralysed man, "Your sins are forgiven", or to say, "Rise, take up your bed and walk"? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins' - he said to the paralysed man - 'I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.' And he rose and immediately picked up his bed and went out before them all, so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, 'We never saw anything like this!'

Reflection on the painting

Saint Anthony the Great (251-356), also known as Anthony of Egypt or Anthony the Abbot, is widely regarded as the father of Christian monasticism. Born in a wealthy family in Coma, Egypt, Anthony felt a divine calling after hearing the Gospel message to "sell what you have and give to the poor." He responded by distributing his inheritance to the needy and dedicating himself to a life of asceticism. Seeking solitude, he withdrew to the desert, where he lived in isolation, fasting, praying, and battling spiritual temptations. Anthony's austere lifestyle and spiritual wisdom drew disciples, and he became a model of holiness and discipline, inspiring countless others to embrace the monastic life. Everything we know about Anthony's life comes from the biography The Life of Anthony, written by Athanasius of Alexandria. Atahnasius presented Anthony as a spiritual hero and popularised the ideals of monasticism.

The temptations of Saint Anthony, depicting his spiritual battles against demonic forces and earthly allurements, have captivated and inspired artists across centuries. From early medieval iconography to the Renaissance and beyond. Artists like Hieronymus Bosch, Salvador Dalí, and Michelangelo have each interpreted Saint Anthony's trials, using the subject to delve into themes of temptation, inner struggle, and divine triumph. The vivid imagery of bizarre demons and the saint's unwavering faith continues to resonate, making it a timeless source of artistic creativity.

The Torment of Saint Anthony (also known as The Temptation of Saint Anthony) is a remarkable painting created by Michelangelo around 1487-1488 when he was only 12 or 13 years old! Absolutely remarkable! This early work is a close copy of a famous engraving by the German artist Martin Schongauer, showcasing the young Michelangelo's prodigious talent and his ability to translate intricate designs into vibrant painted form. The painting depicts the dramatic scene of Saint Anthony being assailed by grotesque demons as he steadfastly resists temptation, a vivid representation of spiritual struggle. Michelangelo's version demonstrates his early mastery of texture, particularly in the detailed rendering of the demons' skin and features, and hints at the artistic genius that would later define his career. It stands as one of the earliest known paintings attributed to Michelangelo and a fascinating example of his youthful exploration of both technical skill and thematic depth.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/mark-2-1-12-2025/