The Twelve Apostles: Saints Bartholomew, Andrew, Matthew, James the Greater, Thaddeus, Philip, James the Lesser, Simon, Peter, Paul, Thomas, and John

Bergognone (Ambrogio di Stefano da Fossano)

Created:
Movement:
1522
Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance Portraiture, Religious Iconography
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Dimensions:
Each 12 1/4 x 6 in. (31.1 x 15.2 cm)
medium:
Oil and gold on wood
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Twelve Apostles: Saints Bartholomew, Andrew, Matthew, James the Greater, Thaddeus, Philip, James the Lesser, Simon, Peter, Paul, Thomas, and John" is a painting attributed to the Italian Renaissance artist Ambrogio di Stefano da Fossano, known as Bergognone. The exact date of its creation is unknown, but it is believed to have been produced in the late 15th or early 16th century. The work reflects Bergognone's characteristic style, which combines elements of Gothic and early Renaissance art. The painting features the twelve apostles, each depicted with distinct attributes that identify them. Bergognone was active primarily in Milan, and his works often display a strong sense of color and intricate detail. The painting is significant for its representation of the apostles, a common theme in Christian art, emphasizing their importance in the foundation of the Church. The current location of the painting is also unknown.

Description of the work:

"The Twelve Apostles: Saints Bartholomew, Andrew, Matthew, James the Greater, Thaddeus, Philip, James the Lesser, Simon, Peter, Paul, Thomas, and John" by Bergognone is an oil and gold on wood painting that features a series of individual figures representing the twelve apostles. Each saint is depicted in a distinct pose, showcasing their unique attributes and symbols associated with their identities. The composition is characterized by a rich use of color, with vibrant hues that enhance the figures' garments and the overall visual impact. The background is adorned with gold, contributing to a sense of luminosity and divine presence. The figures are arranged in a manner that emphasizes their collective significance while allowing for individual recognition. The attention to detail in the facial expressions and clothing reflects the artist's skill in rendering human emotion and texture. The work exemplifies the late Gothic style, merging religious iconography with a focus on naturalism. The exact date of creation remains unknown.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Twelve Apostles: Saints Bartholomew, Andrew, Matthew, James the Greater, Thaddeus, Philip, James the Lesser, Simon, Peter, Paul, Thomas, and John