Blessed Gerard of Villamagna and Saint Mary Magdalen with Saint Catherine of Alexandria

Spinello Aretino painted this panel of Blessed Gerard of Villamagna with Saints Mary Magdalen and Catherine of Alexandria around 1385, now in the Nottingham Museums. The inclusion of the Blessed Gerard, a Florentine Crusader and hermit associated with the Franciscan order, suggests a commission from a religious house connected to his cult. Spinello was one of the most sought-after painters in late Trecento Tuscany, renowned for his energetic figural compositions and prolific output.

Tempera on gold-ground panel, displaying Spinello Aretino's vigorous figure style with strong modeling and expressive characterization. The three standing saints are arranged with clear hierarchical organization, their draperies rendered in bold, flowing folds with rich color contrasts against the gilded background.