Artwork
Saint Mark
Saint Mark is a drawing by Italian 12th Century. It dates from 1101 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The image depicts a medieval manuscript page, featuring a colorful illustration of Saint Mark in the center.
The image depicts a medieval manuscript page, featuring a colorful illustration of Saint Mark in the center. The saint is seated on a throne, wearing a red robe and blue cloak, with a halo surrounding his head. He holds a book in his left hand and a quill in his right. The background of the illustration is blue, with a red border around it.
To the left and right of the illustration are columns of text written in Latin. The text is written in black ink, with some words and phrases highlighted in red. The page is made of vellum, which is a type of animal skin used for writing and art in the Middle Ages.
This manuscript page is an example of the artistic and literary achievements of the Italian 12th Century.
Overview
This medieval drawing on vellum depicts Saint Mark in a colorful illustration, surrounded by Latin text. The artwork is a characteristic example of the artistic and literary production of its time.
Subject & Meaning
The image shows Saint Mark seated on a throne, wearing a red robe and blue cloak, with a halo and holding a book and quill. The representation is typical of the saint's depiction in medieval art, emphasizing his role as a writer and evangelist.
Technique & Style
The illustration is executed in a range of colors on vellum, with a blue background and red border. The text is written in black ink with red highlights, demonstrating the use of color to distinguish important elements.
Artist & collection
Artist
These tiny 12th-century paintings show saints in delicate color on thin animal skin, made for private prayer books.
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