Artwork

Legnica polyptych - left wing external - upper panel - obverse: St Henry, St Nicholas, St Stephen; reverse: temptation of Christ

Legnica polyptych - left wing external - upper panel - obverse: St Henry, St Nicholas, St Stephen; reverse: temptation of Christ, by Mikołaj Obilman, unspecified, 1466
Legnica polyptych - left wing external - upper panel - obverse: St Henry, St Nicholas, St Stephen; reverse: temptation of Christ, by Mikołaj Obilman, unspecified, 1466

Legnica polyptych - left wing external - upper panel - obverse: St Henry, St Nicholas, St Stephen; reverse: temptation of Christ is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Mikołaj Obilman. It dates from 1466 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

The Legnica polyptych's left wing external upper panel is a dual-sided painting by Mikołaj Obilman, dated to 1466. It is currently part of the collection at the National Museum in Warsaw.

Subject & Meaning

The obverse features St Henry, St Nicholas, and St Stephen, highlighting their veneration. The reverse depicts the Temptation of Christ, illustrating a pivotal biblical narrative of spiritual trial.

Technique & Style

While specific artistic techniques are not detailed, the work's age and condition are evident: the reverse side (visible in the image) shows a dark brown hue, a wooden border, and a grid-patterned back, with noticeable wear on both the painting and frame.

History & Provenance

Created in 1466 by Mikołaj Obilman, the panel's history prior to its current ownership is not specified in available information. It is now housed at the National Museum in Warsaw.

Context

Part of the broader Legnica polyptych, this panel reflects the religious art traditions of its time, likely serving a devotional or liturgical purpose in its original context.

Artist & collection

Artist

Mikołaj Obilman

This late-medieval painter created the Legnica polyptych, a five-panel altarpiece from 1466.