This work perfectly balances
realism with content without damaging optical detail. Bernini has brought to
life a fantasy which impacts the emotions of the observer, even if they attempt
to keep it at arms-length. The light shafts, which hint at color, create a specific pattern, as does the
combination of robe folds and clouds. These two patterns have noticeable
contrasts in directionality and edge definition.
Bernini’s use of line is effective at building a warm background and supports the impression of weightlessness he has developed. Their rigid, narrow and golden formatting contrasts beautifully against the flowing, achromatic character of the subjects. This is a rare work of sculpture created before the modern age that successfully develops amorphous forms. It is effortless to imagine bright, radiant color playing on the forms and clouds.
Formal choices are not used to jar the observer or grab their attention. He uses masterful, idealistic naturalism to render his vision, allowing the content to generate what energy, impressions or tension it will within the viewer.
Bernini has executed a vision in which the Saint is quite literally pierced with an arrow by an angel, placing her in a state of simultaneous physical pain and religious release. The greatest single challenge of visual arts is to use formal choices to support and communicate conceptual messages. Bernini has masterfully accomplished this in addition comparing the state of the Saint’s mind to a combination of experiences almost all humans go through, sex and violence.
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