Saint Roch and a donor

This painting of Saint Roch with a donor, executed around 1527 for San Petronio Basilica in Bologna, dates from Parmigianino's time in that city following his escape from the Sack of Rome. Saint Roch, the patron saint of plague victims, was particularly venerated in Italy where plague epidemics were a constant threat. The inclusion of a donor figure kneeling before the saint indicates a private commission, likely motivated by gratitude for surviving illness or by the desire for protection. San Petronio, Bologna's vast unfinished basilica, was one of the most important churches in the city.

The composition pairs the standing saint with the kneeling donor in a traditional devotional arrangement, elevated by Parmigianino's characteristically refined handling. The elongated figure of Saint Roch displays the graceful proportions typical of the artist, while the donor portrait shows his ability to combine idealization with individual characterization.