The Last Judgment; The Virgin and Child with a Bishop-Saint and Saint Peter Martyr; The Crucifixion; The Glorification of Saint Thomas Aquinas; The Nativity

Master of the Dominican Effigies

Created:
Movement:
1330
Gothic art
key Notes:
Polyptych Composition; Dominican Iconography
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Dimensions:
Overall 26 3/8 x 18 5/8 in. (67 x 47.3 cm); painted surface 23 1/4 x 16 5/8 in. (59.1 x 42.2 cm)
medium:
Tempera on wood, gold ground
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Last Judgment; The Virgin and Child with a Bishop-Saint and Saint Peter Martyr; The Crucifixion; The Glorification of Saint Thomas Aquinas; The Nativity" is a work attributed to the Master of the Dominican Effigies, an anonymous artist active in the early 14th century. The painting is characterized by its intricate iconography and reflects the theological themes prevalent in Dominican thought during this period. The artist is known for creating works that emphasize the importance of the Virgin Mary and the saints, particularly in relation to the Dominican Order. The composition likely served both liturgical and didactic purposes, illustrating key moments in Christian salvation history. The exact provenance of the painting is unknown, as is the specific context of its commission. The work is notable for its detailed figures and vibrant colors, typical of Gothic art. It is currently housed in a museum collection, although the specific location may vary.

Description of the work:

"The Last Judgment; The Virgin and Child with a Bishop-Saint and Saint Peter Martyr; The Crucifixion; The Glorification of Saint Thomas Aquinas; The Nativity" is a multi-panel altarpiece attributed to the Master of the Dominican Effigies, created around 1325. The work employs tempera on wood with a gold ground, characteristic of the period's religious art. Each panel features distinct iconography, with the central panel depicting the Last Judgment, showcasing Christ in majesty surrounded by angels and the saved and damned. The Virgin and Child are presented in a separate panel, accompanied by a bishop-saint and Saint Peter Martyr, emphasizing the intercession of saints. The Crucifixion panel illustrates Christ on the cross, flanked by the Virgin Mary and Saint John, rendered with a somber palette. The Glorification of Saint Thomas Aquinas highlights the saint in a celestial setting, surrounded by angels and theological symbols. The Nativity panel captures the birth of Christ, with figures arranged in a stable environment, emphasizing humility and divinity. The use of gold ground throughout the panels enhances the luminosity and spiritual significance of the scenes, creating a cohesive visual experience. The overall composition reflects the hierarchical arrangement typical of Gothic altarpieces, guiding the viewer's gaze through the narrative of salvation.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Last Judgment; The Virgin and Child with a Bishop-Saint and Saint Peter Martyr; The Crucifixion; The Glorification of Saint Thomas Aquinas; The Nativity