Artwork
Kreuzigungsaltar, rechte Flügelaußenseite: Hl. Georg
Kreuzigungsaltar, rechte Flügelaußenseite: Hl. Georg is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Burgkmair the Elder. It dates from 1519 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1519 by Hans Burgkmair the Elder, this religious panel portrays the legendary Saint George. The work forms the right outer wing of a crucifixion altar and is presently displayed in Munich’s Alte Pinakothek.
Subject & Meaning
The composition shows the armored saint standing triumphantly over a subdued dragon, a visual reference to the medieval tale in which George slays the beast to rescue a captive. The spear bearing a white banner underscores his victorious, martyr-like role.
Technique & Style
Burgkmair renders the knight’s plate armor with meticulous detail, employing chiaroscuro to model red and gold embellishments against a muted backdrop. A small sculptural bust and a circular window appear in the rear plane, adding depth and architectural context.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a larger altarpiece, the panel has remained in the Bavarian collection since the 19th century, entering the Alte Pinakothek’s holdings where it is exhibited among other works of early German Renaissance painting.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Burgkmair the Elder (1473–1531) was a German artist, born in Augsburg.
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