Saint Augustine
Giovanni di Paolo·1467
Historical Context
Saint Augustine from 1467 by Giovanni di Paolo at the Harvard Art Museums depicts the great Church Father whose writings on grace and predestination were foundational to Western Christian theology. The bishop's mitre and cope signify Augustine's role as Bishop of Hippo Altarpieces featuring rows of standing saints served both liturgical and devotional functions, identifying the church's patron saints and giving worshippers specific objects for personal prayer.
Technical Analysis
The bishop-saint is rendered with Giovanni di Paolo's angular precision, the elaborate episcopal vestments providing opportunities for the rich decorative detail that characterizes Sienese painting.
