Artwork

The Triumph of the Church

The Triumph of the Church, by German 13th Century, tempera, 1201
The Triumph of the Church, by German 13th Century, tempera, 1201

The Triumph of the Church is a tempera drawing by German 13th Century. It dates from 1201 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Triumph of the Church is a drawing executed in tempera and gold leaf on vellum. It features a prominent composition with two central figures seated on a throne-like structure, surrounded by smaller narrative scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The two main figures, distinguished by their attire and attributes, are likely symbolic representations. The figure in white holds a cross, while the crowned figure in blue grasps a book, suggesting a religious or allegorical context.

Technique & Style

The artwork's visual characteristics, including a gold background and flat, vibrant colors, are achieved through the use of tempera and gold leaf on vellum. This technique creates a sense of luminosity and emphasizes the symbolic nature of the composition.

Context

The use of tempera, a traditional painting medium, indicates a connection to historical artistic practices that date back centuries.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 13th Century

Artist

German 13th Century

This German artist from the 13th century painted tiny religious scenes on vellum, using gold leaf and bright colors.

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