Death of Saint Gertrude (Siglo XVII) by Baltasar Vargas de FigueroaColonial Museum
Saint Gertrude was a Benedictine nun who lived at the end of the 13th century in Germany. Her mystical experiences and moral and theological writings led her to be widely recognized as an example to follow in the conventual world of Nueva Granada.
The painting represents the death of the saint, who lies on a little bed. A blanket full of flowers covers her body. As usual, she wears the Benedictine habit. At the height of her chest, we see her heart on which, according to what is said, the image of Christ was imprinted.
She is accompanied in this trance by Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, patron saint of the good death and who is recognized by the flowery wand he holds.
Saint Agnes also appears in the image, dressed in a red cloak and holding a lamb; Saint Benedict, who carries a staff and a cup with a winged serpent; Saint Catherine of Alexandria, identified by the palm of martyrdom, and Saint Barbara next to her characteristic tower.
Numerous angels and cherubs surround the scene. They are spiritual protectors in the moment of death, one of the most important in the life of a Christian.
Among these angelic figures there is one who is about to crown the saint with flowers, a symbol of her virtues.
In the lower right corner are three nuns, companions of the saint. Next to them there is a table on which rests an unlit candle and a viaticum holder, an implement in which the consecrated host is transported for those who are close to death.
Museum Director
María Constanza Toquica Clavijo
Museology
Manuel Amaya Quintero
Curation
Anamaría Torres Rodríguez
María Isabel Téllez Colmenares
Collection Management
Paula Ximena Guzmán López
Editorial
Tanit Barragán Montilla
Communications
Andrea Valentina Bastidas Cano
