Artwork

Saint Lawrence

Saint Lawrence, by Bonanat Zaortiga the Elder, unspecified, 1450
Saint Lawrence, by Bonanat Zaortiga the Elder, unspecified, 1450

Saint Lawrence is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Bonanat Zaortiga the Elder. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

About this work

Overview

Saint Lawrence is a 15th-century religious painting attributed to Bonanat Zaortiga the Elder, dated circa 1450. It is part of the collection at the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a kneeling figure in a red robe with gold trim, identified as Saint Lawrence by the attributes of a palm frond (symbolizing martyrdom) in his left hand and an open book (representing religious devotion) in his right. A halo confirms his saintly status.

Technique & Style

The composition features a strong contrast between the figure's vibrant, gold-trimmed attire and a somber, dark background punctuated by orange and black shapes, possibly evoking flames. The style is characteristic of early Renaissance religious art, with attention to symbolic detail.

History & Provenance

Created around 1450, the painting's history prior to its inclusion in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya's collection is not detailed here. It is currently housed in this Catalan museum.

Context

This work reflects the religious themes prevalent in European art of the 15th century, combining symbolism (halo, palm, book) with the emerging techniques of the early Renaissance.

Legacy

As a work by Bonanat Zaortiga the Elder, it contributes to the understanding of the artist's oeuvre and the broader context of Catalan art during the Renaissance period.

Artist & collection