The Mass of Saint Basil

This is Subleyras’s highly finished proposal, or modello, for his most important commission: a design translated into an enormous mosaic altarpiece for Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. Subleyras depicts Saint Basil the Great (ca. 330–379) celebrating Mass in the presence of the Emperor Valens (328–378). The artist’s exceptional ability to depict the color white in all its tonal range is evident in the robes of the priests who surround Basil as he receives wine for Communion. The young emperor, picked out by a bright red cape, swoons dramatically in response to what he witnesses. This painting was listed in Subleyras’s posthumous inventory and retains its original frame.