Artwork

Saint Wolfgang

Saint Wolfgang, oil, 1512
Saint Wolfgang, oil, 1512

Saint Wolfgang is an oil painting. It dates from 1512 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The choice of oil on panel was a widespread artistic method during the period, enabling the creation of intricate details and a sense of realism.

The painting titled "Saint Wolfgang" is an oil work executed on a wooden panel. It presents a religious figure, presumably Saint Wolfgang, within a conventional devotional setting. The choice of oil on panel was a widespread artistic method during the period, enabling the creation of intricate details and a sense of realism. This technique allowed for the development of subtle colors and varied textures, contributing to the artwork's visual depth.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork features a saintly figure, likely Saint Wolfgang, rendered in a traditional manner. The subject is depicted in modest attire, and his countenance conveys a sense of kindness. Such portrayals typically aimed to evoke spiritual contemplation and veneration, presenting the saint as an approachable and compassionate figure for religious devotion.

Technique & Style

The artist utilized oil paints on a wooden panel, a method favored for its capacity to achieve fine detail and a lifelike appearance. This medium allowed for the application of multiple thin layers of paint, a technique often referred to as glazing. This layering process facilitated the creation of nuanced color transitions and rich surface textures, which enhanced the painting's perceived depth and realism.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.