Artwork

Saint George and the Dragon

Saint George and the Dragon, by Bernat Martorell, tempera, 1434
Saint George and the Dragon, by Bernat Martorell, tempera, 1434

Saint George and the Dragon is a tempera painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Bernat Martorell. It dates from 1434 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Bernat Martorell's 'Saint George and the Dragon' is a tempera painting created between 1434 and 1435, depicting the legendary Christian knight Saint George's rescue of a princess from a dragon.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the pivotal moment of Saint George's battle with the dragon to save the princess, symbolizing Christian valor and salvation. The princess, though in proximity to the conflict, observes passively with a white cloth, contrasting with the knight's active heroism.

Technique & Style

Martorell employed tempera to render detailed, textured elements: the knight's heavy, gold-accented armor; the dragon's rough, sharp-toothed form; and the princess's simpler, yet conspicuous, pink attire. The composition focuses on the central conflict, with muted background elements (castle, onlookers) subordinated to the main action.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1434-1435 by the Catalan artist Bernat Martorell, specific provenance details (ownership history) are not provided in the available information.

Context

This work reflects the medieval European fascination with saints' legends, particularly Saint George's widespread popularity across Catalonia and beyond. The scene's depiction aligns with the religious and chivalric values of the time.

Legacy

While the painting's direct influence is not elaborated here, it contributes to the enduring visual legacy of Saint George's legend in art, inviting viewers to explore the saint's significance in Christian tradition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bernat Martorell

Artist

Bernat Martorell

Bernat Martorell was the leading painter of Barcelona, in modern-day Spain. He is considered to be the most important artist of the International Gothic style in Catalonia. Martorell painted retable panels and…