Saint Justina of Padua

About this artwork

Saint Justina of Padua painted by the Italian artist Bartolomeo Montagnaalso known as Bartolomeo Cinc) in the 1490s, is a compelling devotional portrait from the late Renaissance period. Depicting the revered virgin martyr and patron saint of Padua, this exemplifies the era's focus on religious subjects, blending spiritual reverence with emerging humanistic ideals. Montagna, active in northern Italy, contributed to the rich tradition of sacred imagery that adorned churches, homes, and private chapels, inviting viewers into a contemplative dialogue with the divine. Crafted in oil on wood—a favored medium for its durability and luminous effects—this panel measures 19½ × 15⅛ inches overall (with later added strips), though the original painted surface is slightly smaller at 19⅛ × 14¾ inches. The technique highlights the sophisticated handling of oil paints, allowing for subtle modeling of form, rich color gradations, and a sense of lifelike presence that defined Renaissance innovations. These panels were often produced for personal devotion, underscoring the cultural importance of saints as intercessors in daily life. Acquired through the Bequest of Benjamin Altman in 1913, this painting graces the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Paintings department. It offers modern visitors a window into 15th-century Italian artistry, preserving the technical mastery and cultural devotion of its time.