Saint Matthias

Saint Matthias by Bartolomeo Bulgarini

Saint Matthias, painted by Bartolomeo Bulgarini in 1353, is a notable example of Sienese art from the mid-14th century. The work is executed in tempera on wood with a gold ground, a technique characteristic of the period, which emphasizes the spiritual and ethereal qualities of the subject. Bulgarini, active in Siena, was part of a tradition that valued intricate detail and vibrant color, contributing to the city's reputation as a center of Gothic art. His works often reflect the influence of earlier Sienese masters such as Duccio di Buoninsegna, yet Bulgarini's style is distinguished by its delicate figures and expressive use of gold leaf. The painting of Saint Matthias is significant for its devotional purpose, likely intended for private worship or as part of a larger altarpiece. Bulgarini's contributions to Sienese painting underscore the transition from Byzantine influences to a more localized Gothic style, marking an important period in the history of Italian art.

"Saint Matthias" by Bartolomeo Bulgarini, created in 1353, is a tempera on wood painting with a gold ground, exemplifying the Sienese Gothic style characterized by its use of vibrant colors and intricate detailing. The artwork depicts Saint Matthias, one of the apostles, and is noted for its devotional purpose and the luxurious use of gold, typical of religious iconography of the period.