Artwork
Retable of Saints Athanasius, Blaise, and Agatha
Retable of Saints Athanasius, Blaise, and Agatha is a tempera painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master of Riglos. It dates from 1440 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
The Retable of Saints Athanasius, Blaise, and Agatha is a tempera painting on panel created around 1440 by the Master of Riglos. It is now held at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts three saints - Athanasius, Blaise, and Agatha - standing together against a gold background, their figures distinguished by richly colored robes with gold trim and halos.
Technique & Style
Executed in tempera, a medium made from egg yolk and pigment, the work showcases the artist's use of fine brushstrokes and attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of the saints' faces. The gold background emphasizes the flatness of the composition.
Context
The painting's enduring colors and detailed execution reflect the characteristics of tempera as a medium, which dries quickly and requires careful application.
Artist & collection
Artist
This 15th-century Spanish painter made vivid, storybook-style altarpieces. Try the *Annunciation of the Death; Dormition of the Virgin*, where soft folds of fabric and bright blues guide your eye between two linked…
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