Description
The painting Polyptych of St Augustine: St Nicholas of Tolentino by artist Piero Della Francesca is a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance. This painting is a polyptych consisting of three panels, with Saint Augustine in the center, flanked by Saint Nicholas of Tolentino and Saint John the Evangelist.
Piero Della Francesca's artistic style is characterized by its mathematical precision and attention to detail. In this work, we can appreciate the artist's ability to create a balanced and harmonious composition, with perfect symmetry in the arrangement of characters and objects.
Color also plays an important role in this work, with soft and delicate tones that create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The golden tones in the details of the saints' clothing and in the background of the painting add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The history of the painting is fascinating, as it is believed to have been commissioned by the Santi family in the 1460s for the church of Saint Augustine in the town of Sansepolcro. However, the painting was dismembered and sold for parts in the 19th century, and today it is found in different collections around the world.
A little known aspect of this painting is that Piero Della Francesca is believed to have used geometry to create perspective in the composition. The arrangement of the characters has been shown to follow a mathematical ratio known as the "golden ratio", suggesting that the artist had a thorough understanding of mathematics and geometry.
In short, the painting Polyptych of St Augustine: St Nicholas of Tolentino by Piero Della Francesca is a stunning work of art that combines mathematical precision with aesthetic beauty. Its balanced composition, soft colors and serene atmosphere make it one of the most outstanding works of the Italian Renaissance.