Artwork
Saint Erasmus
Saint Erasmus is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Burgkmair the Elder. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
The painting Saint Erasmus is a work by Hans Burgkmair the Elder, dated to 1518. It is housed at the Alte Pinakothek.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a robed figure, identified as Saint Erasmus, holding a staff and an object topped with a cross. His attire, including a red-and-gold robe with leafy patterns and a decorated hat, signifies his importance. The objects and his serious demeanor indicate his religious significance.
Technique & Style
The use of chiaroscuro, evident in the way light highlights the figure's face and robe, creates a sense of depth and volume. The contrast between light and dark areas draws attention to the saint.
Context
Created in 1518, the painting is a product of the Northern Renaissance, a period marked by significant artistic innovation and the emergence of new techniques.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Burgkmair the Elder (1473–1531) was a German artist, born in Augsburg.
A papal Saint
Papa Gregorio Magno
San Clemente Papa
St Adalbert (obverse); Mary from the scene of the Annunciation (reverse). Wing of the altar retable from Snoza
A Holy Bishop
Kreuzigungsaltar: Hl. Bischof (Lambertus von Lüttich?) mit Stifterin
St Adalbert (?), St Martin, Our Lady of Sorrows. Left wing from the altar retable from the church of St Mark in Żywiec
Beweinungsaltar, Flügelaußenseite: Hl. Kunibert
Warrior Saint
Moses
Johannesaltar, rechter Flügel: Hl. Martin
Saint Erasmus