Artwork
Roundel with Saint Agnes
Roundel with Saint Agnes is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1496 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This circular painting depicts Saint Agnes, a female figure with long blonde hair, crowned in gold.
About this work
Overview
This circular painting depicts Saint Agnes, a female figure with long blonde hair, crowned in gold. She stands on a modest platform, cradling a small lamb. Her gray robe, accented with yellow trim, contrasts with the predominantly black background, which features subtle white swirling patterns. A small boat rests at her feet, adding a curious detail to the composition.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is identifiable as Saint Agnes, a Christian martyr. The lamb she holds is a traditional attribute, symbolizing innocence, purity, and sacrifice, often associated with Christ himself and the virtue of kindness. This iconography reinforces her identity and the religious narratives connected to her life and martyrdom.
Technique & Style
The painting exhibits a distinct stylistic approach characterized by its use of flat, unmodulated colors and prominent, bold outlines. This technique contributes to a simplified, almost two-dimensional appearance, evoking artistic traditions from earlier periods. The stark background further emphasizes the central figure, creating a clear and direct visual statement.
Artist & collection
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