Saint Elizabeth distributes alms by Rotari

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Saint Elizabeth Distributes Alms. Pietro Antonio Rotari, 1762.

(Die Heilige Elisabeth verteilt Almosen)

Pietro Antonio Rotari (1707–1762) was an Italian painter of the late Baroque and early Rococo period, born in Verona and later active in Vienna, Dresden, and finally Saint Petersburg, where he worked for the Russian Imperial court. Renowned especially for his portraits of women, Rotari developed a distinctive style marked by clarity, refinement, and gentle expressiveness. His ability to convey emotional subtlety and idealized beauty made his works highly sought after among European nobility.

In Saint Elizabeth Distributes Alms, Rotari turns his attention to a religious subject that highlights compassion and social responsibility. The painting portrays Saint Elizabeth of Hungary in the act of giving alms during one of her daily charitable practices. Her composed, dignified presence contrasts with the group of beggars who surround her. Most of those seeking aid are women, children, and the elderly, emphasizing the vulnerability of the poor in her society. Some faces show anxiety or need, yet the overall atmosphere of the scene remains serene, shaped by the saint’s calm expression and gentle movements.

This image reflects the depth of Saint Elizabeth’s sincere devotion to the welfare of her people. Much like Saint Francis, she recognized the face of Christ in the suffering and poverty of others. Her charitable acts were not mere duty, but manifestations of tenderness, empathy, and spiritual commitment. In Rotari’s portrayal, Saint Elizabeth becomes both a noble figure and a humble servant of compassion.

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This original image is in the public domain, however, the file now offered is a manually restored version of this artwork, in a higher resolution. Manually restoration was necessary in order to improve quality, without covering the original image. Imperfections due to historical aging of the source may still be present.