#4 Religious Art

St. Eulalia by John William Waterhouse

Thai Buddha

I am amazed at what religion has inspired people to create. From ancient Egypt to Thailand, from 3000BCE to present day, the most beautiful images and music, in my opinion, have been inspired by a love for God.

The first image I posted is of St. Eulalia who is a co-patron saint of Barcelona. She was a young, virgin martyr for Christianity. She was killed by the Romans who first tortured her then left her nude in a public square to humiliate her. It is said that snow fell to cover her even though it was late spring. This story obviously touched Waterhouse deeply. St Eulalia's body appears to have been carried and dropped roughly. It is said that a dove flew from her mouth at the moment of her death. Waterhouse acknowledges this by including doves, several of which actually appear to be concerned with the body of Eulalia. The painting was done in 1885. Waterhouse was a member of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.

The Thai Buddha is just an example of the plethora of gorgeous Asian art dedicated to a religious ideal.

I always thought that ancient people were dedicated to their gods out of fear but when I think about it the beauty of religious art throughout time belies that idea and portrays a deep and true love.