Who painted The Death of Saint Ephraim?

The Death of Saint Ephraim was painted by Giuliano Amidei.

Where can I see The Death of Saint Ephraim?

The Death of Saint Ephraim is held by National Galleries Scotland.

What movement is The Death of Saint Ephraim?

The Death of Saint Ephraim is associated with Early Renaissance.

Artwork

The Death of Saint Ephraim

Giuliano Amidei

The Death of Saint Ephraim is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Giuliano Amidei. It is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

Giuliano Amidei’s tempera work titled The Death of Saint Ephraim dates from around 1500 and is part of the collection of the Scottish National Gallery. The composition presents a quiet, ritualized funeral scene, rendered in muted tones that convey a solemn atmosphere appropriate to its devotional purpose.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a group of mourners gathered around a lifeless figure placed on a bier covered with a blue cloth. Attired in contrasting white and black robes, the participants hold candles and small crosses, suggesting a liturgical rite. A distant church and a rugged landscape frame the scene, reinforcing themes of piety, passage, and the hope of salvation.

Technique & Style

Executed in tempera, the work achieves fine detail through layered pigment and a matte finish, allowing subtle gradations of light and shadow. The restrained palette of earth tones and soft blues contributes to a sense of depth without overt dramatization, while the careful modeling of fabric and foliage demonstrates the artist’s command of the medium.

History & Provenance

Created at the turn of the sixteenth century, the painting eventually entered the holdings of the Scottish National Gallery, where it remains on display. Its attribution to Amidei aligns with documented commissions for religious subjects during his career, though the work’s earlier ownership record is limited.