Saint Basil the Great

Written By Brian Fletcher
The "St. Basil Dictating His Doctrine"(c.1638) by Francisco de Herrera

St. Basil Dictating His Doctrine (c.1638) by Francisco de Herrera

January 2nd the feast day of Saint Basil the Great. His vast knowledge, speeches, monastic reforms, and extensive charitable works earned him the title of "Great" during his lifetime.

The "St. Basil Dictating His Doctrine"(c.1638) by Francisco de Herrera. The painting was originally part of an altarpiece in San Basilio el Grande in Seville. It is now at the Louvre, though not currently on display.

We see St. Basil inspired by the Holy Spirit (dove above) and dictating his Ascetion (rules) with SS Francis, Benedict, Augustine and others eagerly transcribing.

Can you identify any other saints in the painting?

Brian Fletcher
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The Madonna of the Rosary - Caravaggio