Description
The painting "The Apostle St Bartholomew" by the Italian artist Matteo Di Giovanni is a masterpiece of the 15th century. The piece, which measures 80.5 x 48 cm, is painted in oil on panel and shows Saint Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus.
What makes this painting unique is the technique used by Di Giovanni. His art style is known for being highly detailed and realistic, and this work is no exception. The figure of Saint Bartholomew is rendered with great precision, with every fold of his robe and every vein in his hand carefully painted.
The composition of the painting is also interesting. Saint Bartholomew is seated on a throne, with a cross in one hand and a book in the other. Behind him, there is a landscape with a river and mountains. The figure of the saint stands out against the dark background, giving it a dramatic and theatrical effect.
Color is also a prominent aspect of the painting. Di Giovanni used a rich and vibrant color palette, with shades of red, gold and green. These colors combine to create a feeling of wealth and opulence.
The story behind the painting is also fascinating. It was painted around 1470 for the Church of Saint Bartholomew in Siena, Italy. The painting was stolen in the 19th century and passed through several hands before being recovered and returned to its place of origin in the 1920s.
A little known aspect of this painting is that Di Giovanni also included his own image in the work. At the bottom left of the painting, there is a self-portrait of the artist with his signature.
In short, "The Apostle St Bartholomew" is an impressive work of art noted for its detailed and realistic technique, its dramatic composition, its rich and vibrant color palette, and its fascinating history.