Saint Margaret Nicolas Poussin (1594-1665)

The composition presents a figure in a moment of apparent confrontation and deliverance. A young woman, centrally positioned, is draped in flowing garments – a vibrant orange tunic beneath a deep blue cloak – that emphasize her upward gaze. Her expression conveys a mixture of apprehension and serenity, as if acknowledging an unseen force. She raises one hand towards the sky, while the other extends forward, seemingly warding off or accepting assistance.
Below her, a monstrous serpentine form dominates the lower portion of the canvas. The creature’s scales are rendered with meticulous detail, highlighting its formidable size and menacing presence. Its jaws are agape, revealing sharp teeth, suggesting an imminent threat. The beast appears to be emerging from a dark, undefined space, further amplifying the sense of danger.
Above the woman, hovering in the upper right quadrant, is a diminutive winged figure – an angel – who offers what seems to be a small branch or twig. This gesture can be interpreted as divine intervention, a symbol of protection and salvation offered to the woman facing peril. The landscape visible behind the angel suggests a distant, idealized realm, reinforcing the contrast between earthly suffering and heavenly grace.
The artist’s use of light is particularly noteworthy. A strong directional light illuminates the womans face and upper body, drawing attention to her expression and emphasizing her spiritual connection. The serpent is partially shrouded in shadow, creating a dramatic interplay of light and dark that heightens the tension within the scene.
Subtextually, this painting explores themes of faith, courage, and divine protection against adversity. The woman’s posture suggests not defiance but rather acceptance – a willingness to confront fear with trust. The serpent likely represents temptation or evil, while the angel embodies hope and redemption. The overall narrative implies a triumph over hardship through spiritual fortitude and divine assistance. The inclusion of the laurel branch held by the angel may allude to victory and honor, further reinforcing this theme.