Who painted St Catherine of Siena?

St Catherine of Siena was painted by Domenico Ghirlandaio.

Where can I see St Catherine of Siena?

St Catherine of Siena is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is St Catherine of Siena?

St Catherine of Siena is associated with Early Renaissance.

Artwork

St Catherine of Siena

Domenico Ghirlandaio

St Catherine of Siena is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Domenico Ghirlandaio. It is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

St Catherine of Siena is a tempera painting created by Domenico Ghirlandaio in 1496. A prominent figure in early Renaissance art, Ghirlandaio led a prolific workshop in Florence. This work is part of the religious genre of the early Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays Catherine of Siena, a 14th-century mystic. Her depiction in a dark robe and white headscarf, holding a red book (symbolizing her writings) and a staff with a cross (indicating her religious devotion), conveys her spiritual significance. Her serious demeanor and averted gaze add to the contemplative atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Executed in tempera, the painting features a predominantly dark color palette, contrasted by the white headscarf and red book, drawing focal attention. A gold background with a shell-like motif and inscribed text above enhances the subject's sacred context, reflecting Ghirlandaio's characteristic blend of detail and symbolism.

History & Provenance

Created in 1496, St Catherine of Siena is now housed in the Alte Pinakothek. Originally, the work would have been part of a religious or private devotional setting, given its subject matter and style.

Context

As a third-generation Renaissance artist, Ghirlandaio's work bridges traditional religious themes with emerging Renaissance styles. Catherine of Siena's popularity during the Renaissance, due to her canonization in 1462, made her a frequent subject in art of the time.

Legacy

While specific influence of St Catherine of Siena on later artists is not broadly documented, Ghirlandaio's overall contribution to training numerous apprentices in his workshop contributed significantly to the dissemination of early Renaissance artistic practices.

Artist & collection

Artist

Domenico Ghirlandaio

Domenico di Tommaso Curradi di Doffo Bigordi (2 June 1448 – 11 January 1494), professionally known as Domenico Ghirlandaio (also spelt as Ghirlandajo), was an Italian Renaissance painter born in Florence.