Artwork
Scenes of the legend of Saint Michael
Scenes of the legend of Saint Michael is an unspecified painting by Miguel Alcañiz the Elder. It dates from 1421 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon.
About this work
Overview
Scenes of the legend of Saint Michael is a 15th-century religious painting by Miguel Alcañiz the Elder, dated to 1421, and part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon.
Subject & Meaning
The top panel depicts a figure, possibly Saint Michael, in attire that includes a pink shirt and black pants, armed with a bow and arrow, accompanied by a dog.
The painting narrates the legend of Saint Michael through three distinct scenes. The top panel depicts a figure, possibly Saint Michael, in attire that includes a pink shirt and black pants, armed with a bow and arrow, accompanied by a dog. The middle section shows a gathering around a central figure in a blue robe, potentially illustrating a moment of reverence or instruction. The bottom section features a group in white robes before a cave, suggesting a scene of pilgrimage, contemplation, or discovery related to the saint's legend.
Technique & Style
Characterized by meticulous detail, the painting showcases intricate patterns on clothing and architectural elements. The color palette is notable for its vibrancy, with prominent use of pink, blue, and gold hues, contributing to the work's visual richness.
History & Provenance
Created in 1421 by Miguel Alcañiz the Elder, the painting's history prior to its current location at the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon is not detailed here, indicating a need for further research on its provenance.
Context
As a religious work from 1421, it reflects the medieval interest in saintly legends and the artistic traditions of its time, possibly catering to devotional practices or educational purposes within the Church.
Legacy
The painting's impact on later artistic movements or its significance within Miguel Alcañiz the Elder's oeuvre is not specified, suggesting it may be more valued for its historical and thematic content than for influencing subsequent art styles.
Artist & collection
Artist
Miguel Alcañiz the Elder (1400–1450) was an artist, born in Valencia.
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