Artwork
Saint Nicholas of Bari
Saint Nicholas of Bari is an unspecified painting by Andrea di Bonaiuto. It dates from 1371 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
About this work
Overview
Created circa 1371 by Andrea di Bonaiuto, an active Florentine painter of the mid‑fourthteenth century, this panel portrays Saint Nicholas of Bari. The work is now part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston and exemplifies the devotional imagery typical of the period.
Subject & Meaning
The figure represents Saint Nicholas, a fourth‑century bishop renowned for his charitable acts and miraculous interventions. He is shown holding a book and a staff, symbols of his ecclesiastical authority and teaching role, while his solemn expression underscores his status as a venerated intercessor.
Technique & Style
Rendered in tempera on panel, the saint is dressed in an orange robe patterned with a darker motif, contrasted by a white mitre edged in brown. The background is flat, framed by a simple border, allowing the figure’s chiaroscuro modeling to convey volume without elaborate setting.
History & Provenance
Andrea di Bonaiuto is better known for frescoes in Florence’s Santa Maria Novella, especially the Dominican‑themed decorations in the Spanish Chapel. This portable image, likely produced for private devotion, entered the Houston museum’s holdings in the twentieth century, though its earlier ownership remains undocumented.
Artist & collection
Artist
Andrea di Bonaiuto da Firenze or Andrea da Firenze was an Italian painter active in Florence.
