Who painted Saint Clare of Assisi?

Saint Clare of Assisi was painted by German 15th Century in 1475.

Where can I see Saint Clare of Assisi?

Saint Clare of Assisi is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Saint Clare of Assisi?

Saint Clare of Assisi is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Saint Clare of Assisi

German 15th Century , 1475

Saint Clare of Assisi is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1475 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Saint Clare of Assisi is a hand-colored woodcut print depicting the titular saint in a serene, symbolic environment. Characterized by flat, bright colors and sharp lines, the work reflects the typical aesthetic of its medium and period.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays Saint Clare of Assisi, identifiable by her Franciscan robe and halo. She holds a lantern with a cross, symbolizing her faith and spiritual illumination. The calm expression and peaceful surroundings convey her revered virtues of serenity and devotion.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the image features sharp, carved lines, overlaid with hand-colored areas in pink, green, gray, black, gold, and blue. The flat, bright coloration and simple forms are consistent with the woodcut technique's capabilities and the artistic conventions of the time, often used in illustrated books and prints.

History & Provenance

Due to the lack of specific details provided, the exact historical context, creation date, and ownership history of this particular print remain unspecified. It is presumed to align with the general production practices of woodcuts during its period.

Context

This woodcut would have been created within the broader tradition of religious art in Europe, where woodcuts served as a popular medium for disseminating saintly images and stories to a wide audience, including those who could not read.

Legacy

As a representative of religious woodcut prints, Saint Clare of Assisi contributes to the understanding of early printmaking's role in religious devotion and the dissemination of saintly iconography. Its style and technique reflect the enduring influence of early printing methods on subsequent artistic practices.