Artwork

Meering between Saint Rochus an Gothardus

Meering between Saint Rochus an Gothardus, by Bartolomeo della Gatta, oil, 1490
Meering between Saint Rochus an Gothardus, by Bartolomeo della Gatta, oil, 1490

Meering between Saint Rochus an Gothardus is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Bartolomeo della Gatta. It dates from 1490 and is held in the collection of the Alte Pinakothek.

About this work

Overview

Bartolomeo della Gatta's *Meeting between Saint Rochus and Gothardus*, circa 1490, is an early Renaissance oil painting. Originally named Pietro di Antonio Dei, the artist was a multifaceted creative (painter, illuminator, architect) who later became a Camaldolese monk. The work is housed at the Alte Pinakothek.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts an encounter between two saintly figures, Saint Rochus (kneeling, pointing at a dog near a discarded shoe) and Gothardus (standing in vibrant red attire). The composition suggests a narrative of devotion or spiritual connection, hinted at by the matching red cape on Rochus. The calm dog, oblivious to the shoe, may symbolize faith or steadfastness.

Technique & Style

While specific technical aspects of the painting are not detailed here, its early Renaissance attribution suggests characteristics common to the period, such as attention to detail, emerging use of perspective, and possibly the beginnings of chiaroscuro (as hinted by the suggestion for viewers interested in storytelling through light and shadow).

History & Provenance

Created around 1490 by Bartolomeo della Gatta, the painting's history prior to its current residence at the Alte Pinakothek is not specified in the provided details. The artist's transition to monastic life as a Camaldolese monk adds a layer of intrigue to his creative output during this period.

Context

Emerging from the early Renaissance, this work reflects the period's religious themes and the beginning of more nuanced storytelling in art. The outdoor setting, complete with architectural and natural elements (distant castle, rocky cliff), was a characteristic choice for narrative religious scenes.

Legacy

The painting's legacy is not explicitly outlined in the provided information, though its presence in the Alte Pinakothek collection implies recognition of its historical and artistic value. Interest in its storytelling elements directs viewers towards exploring chiaroscuro, a technique that would become more pronounced in later Renaissance works.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bartolomeo della Gatta

Artist

Bartolomeo della Gatta

Bartolomeo della Gatta (1448–1502), born Pietro di Antonio Dei, was an Italian (Florentine) painter, illuminator, and architect.

Alte Pinakothek

Museum

Alte Pinakothek

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