Saint Stephen (with the Angel of the Annunciation)
Medium
Tempera on wood, gold ground
Dimensions
Overall, with shaped top and engaged (modern) frame, 59 3/8 x 15 1/2 in. (150.8 x 39.4 cm); Saint Stephen 39 3/4 x 11 3/8 in. (101 x 28.9 cm); angel 12 3/4 x 9 1/4 in. (32.4 x 23.5 cm)
Classification
Paintings
Department
European Paintings
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Theodore M. Davis Collection, Bequest of Theodore M. Davis, 1915
Accession Number
30.95.263
Tags
Art Historical Context
This elegant panel by the Sienese painter Martino di Bartolommeo di Biagio portrays Saint Stephen alongside a small image of the Angel of the Annunciation. Created in tempera on wood with a luminous gold ground, the work reflects the devotional art of late medieval and early Renaissance Italy. Such panels often formed part of larger altieces in churches, where the brilliant gold background evoked divine light and heavenly presence, drawing worshippers into contemplation. Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is shown holding a book, symbolizing his role as a deacon and preacher. The incl...