Goya's Portrait of St. Ambrose

I would like to say a few words about this spooky and darkly beautiful painting done by Francisco de Goya in about 1796 or so that hangs in the Cleveland Museum of Art.

           First off, the painting is quite big; bigger than the biggest flat screen t.v. on your block, say. Here sits St. Ambrose in his bishop vestments emphasized boldly in white and gold, huge beard and tall hat with a large open book on his lap and quill pen poised to write. He is looking upwards. The background is pure black darkness. Out of the total nothingness we see St. Ambrose huge, imposing with a tortured look upwards towards his God. His expression indicates that a communion with God in all his immense power is about to take place and is no small matter.
          This bishop seems to tell us with his look that when the awesome force of God hits you you feel it in your body and soul and are made to remember your own earthly limitations by being totally exhausted from such an experience.He looks up as if to say, "O  Lord, one more time and then let me rest tomorrow night, let me rest for one night until the overwhelming force of your truth blasts my consciousness once again." The man looks like a tortured soul.
          The painting itself demands attention. Out of a deep darkness emerges the holy man in his elegant clothing on the cusp of another direct communication blast wave. Here comes the light. He's got his paper and pen ready. He's got that look. I imagine he takes a deep breath. He is outside of time.