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The Burial of Saint Zenobius by Davide Ghirlandaio

The Burial of Saint Zenobius

Davide Ghirlandaio·1479

Historical Context

This religious painting from 1479 by Davide Ghirlandaio reflects the fifteenth-century approach to sacred subjects, balancing theological orthodoxy with artistic innovation. Painted during the flourishing of the Early Renaissance, the work draws on centuries of iconographic tradition while expressing Davide Ghirlandaio's individual interpretation of the divine narrative. By the 1480s and 1490s, the printing press was spreading artistic ideas across Europe with unprecedented speed, while the discovery of the New World was expanding European horizons.

Technical Analysis

Tempera technique, reflecting earlier traditions, the religious composition demonstrates Davide Ghirlandaio's skilled technique and careful observation in service of sacred narrative. The figural arrangement draws on established iconographic tradition while the handling of light and color creates emotional resonance.

See It In Person

Metropolitan Museum of Art

New York, United States

Visit museum website →

Quick Facts

Medium
Tempera on panel
Dimensions
15.9 × 41.3 cm
Era
Early Renaissance
Style
Early Renaissance
Genre
Religious
Location
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
View on museum website →

More by Davide Ghirlandaio

Portrait of a Young Man by Davide Ghirlandaio

Portrait of a Young Man

Davide Ghirlandaio·1448

Selvaggia Sassetti (born 1470) by Davide Ghirlandaio

Selvaggia Sassetti (born 1470)

Davide Ghirlandaio·1487

Virgin and Child, with Saints Apollonia and Sebastian by Davide Ghirlandaio

Virgin and Child, with Saints Apollonia and Sebastian

Davide Ghirlandaio·1490

Madonna and Child by Davide Ghirlandaio

Madonna and Child

Davide Ghirlandaio·1490

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Saint Peter Martyr Exorcizing a Woman Possessed by a Devil

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