Artwork

Franciscan Saint

Franciscan Saint, by Antonio Veneziano, paint, 1400
Franciscan Saint, by Antonio Veneziano, paint, 1400

Franciscan Saint is a paint painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Antonio Veneziano. It dates from 1400 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Franciscan Saint, a painting by Antonio Veneziano from 1400, is part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. The work presents two distinct figures set against a luxurious gold background.

Subject & Meaning

The left figure, dressed in a red robe with gold patterns and a matching hat, holds a staff and a book, symbolizing authority and knowledge. The right figure, in a dark robe with clasped hands, embodies humility or devotion. Together, they may represent contrasting aspects of Franciscan virtues.

Technique & Style

The painting showcases meticulous detail and employs chiaroscuro, creating a strong contrast between light and dark elements, which enhances the visual impact of the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1400 by Antonio Veneziano, the painting's history prior to its current location at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin is not detailed in available information.

Context

The gold background signifies the importance and sanctity of the subjects, aligning with the artistic conventions of the time for depicting religious figures.

Artist & collection

Artist

Antonio Veneziano

Antonio Veneziano painted delicate panels of saints and angels around the turn of the 1400s, their gold halos glowing against soft reds and blues.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.