Saint Christophe (retable de la Trinité)

This Saint Christopher formed part of Bartolo di Fredi's Trinity Altarpiece, portions of which are now divided between the Louvre and other collections. Bartolo was a leading figure in late Trecento Sienese painting, and this altarpiece represents a major ecclesiastical commission. Saint Christopher, the patron of travelers, was among the most popular saints in medieval devotion, believed to protect the faithful from sudden death if his image was viewed daily.

Egg tempera on gold-ground panel, consistent with the other surviving fragments of the Trinity Altarpiece. Bartolo renders the giant saint carrying the Christ Child with characteristically vivid narrative detail, employing bold outlines and warm Sienese coloring against the luminous gold background.