Who painted Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen?

Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen was painted by Unknown in 1460.

Where can I see Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen?

Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen?

Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen is associated with Early Renaissance.

Artwork

Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen

Unknown , 1460

Der hl. Georg mit dem Drachen is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1460 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. The work depicts a heavily armoured knight on a white horse, thrusting a spear as he charges across a grassy plain.

About this work

Overview

The work depicts a heavily armoured knight on a white horse, thrusting a spear as he charges across a grassy plain. A woman in red robes stands close to the scene, while broken weapons, skulls and the coiled tail of a massive dragon litter the ground near the horse’s hooves. Distant castles and a winding road form a muted backdrop, emphasizing the central action.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents the legendary figure of Saint George confronting a dragon, a motif symbolising the triumph of Christian virtue over evil. The presence of the red‑clad woman may allude to a rescued maiden or a personification of the faithful, reinforcing the narrative of salvation through heroic sacrifice.

Technique & Style

Rendered in a highly polished manner, the armor reflects light with a metallic sheen, highlighting the artist’s skill in depicting reflective surfaces. The use of vivid colour contrasts—bright metal, white horse, and scarlet robes—draws the eye to the central figures, while the detailed rendering of broken arms and skulls adds a dramatic, almost theatrical quality.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the collection of the Alte Pinakothek in Munich, where it is displayed for public viewing. Its acquisition history and earlier ownership are not detailed in the available records, but its presence in a major German museum indicates recognition of its artistic and cultural significance.

Context

Saint George and the dragon was a popular subject in European art, especially during the medieval and Renaissance periods, serving both devotional and didactic purposes. This work continues that tradition, situating the saint’s victorious moment within a landscape that combines natural and architectural elements to frame the narrative.