Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Peter, Saint Agnes, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Lucy, an Unidentified Female Saint

Paolo di Giovanni Fei

Created:
Movement:
1393
Gothic art
key Notes:
Gothic Altarpiece, Sacred Assembly
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Dimensions:
Overall, with engaged frame, 34 1/4 x 23 1/4 in. (87 x 59.1 cm); painted surface 27 7/8 x 17 1/4 in. (70.8 x 43.8 cm)
medium:
Tempera on wood, gold ground
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Peter, Saint Agnes, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Lucy, an Unidentified Female Saint, Saint Paul, and Saint John the Baptist, with Eve and the Serpent; the Annunciation" is a painting by the Italian artist Paolo di Giovanni Fei, created circa 1385–90. Fei was active in Siena during the late 14th century and is known for his contributions to the Sienese Gothic style. This work exemplifies the characteristic features of the period, including the use of vibrant colors, intricate details, and a hierarchical composition. The painting depicts the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child seated on a throne, surrounded by various saints, which reflects the medieval emphasis on the veneration of the Virgin and the saints. The inclusion of Eve and the serpent alludes to themes of original sin and redemption, common in religious art of the time. The identity of the unidentified female saint remains unknown. The painting is significant for its representation of the theological and artistic ideals of the late medieval period in Italy. It is currently housed in a museum collection, although the specific location is not provided.

Description of the work:

The painting "Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Peter, Saint Agnes, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Lucy, an Unidentified Female Saint, Saint Paul, and Saint John the Baptist, with Eve and the Serpent; the Annunciation" by Paolo di Giovanni Fei features a central depiction of the Madonna and Child seated on a richly adorned throne. The figures are set against a gold ground, which enhances the luminosity and sacred quality of the scene. The Madonna is portrayed with a serene expression, holding the Child Jesus, who is depicted in a gesture of blessing. Surrounding the central figures are various saints, each characterized by distinct attributes that identify them, such as Saint John the Evangelist with his book and Saint Peter with keys. The composition is structured with a hierarchical arrangement, emphasizing the Madonna's centrality. The use of tempera on wood allows for fine detailing and vibrant colors, contributing to the overall richness of the work. The presence of Eve and the serpent at the bottom of the composition introduces a narrative element, contrasting with the divine figures above. The painting exemplifies the Gothic style, characterized by elongated figures and a decorative approach to the background. The overall arrangement and iconography reflect the theological themes prevalent in late 14th-century Italian art.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Peter, Saint Agnes, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Lucy, an Unidentified Female Saint