Saints Hermagoras and Fortunatus
Historical Context
Saints Hermagoras and Fortunatus — the legendary first bishop of Aquileia and his deacon, both martyred in the first century — were patron saints of the Patriarchate of Aquileia, whose ecclesiastical authority extended over much of northeastern Italy including the Veneto and Friuli. Tiepolo's 1736 altarpiece for Udine Cathedral served the cathedral's central devotional function while displaying the luminous grandeur that had already won him the prestigious commission to fresco the Archbishop's Palace nearby.
Technical Analysis
Monumental altarpiece composition lifts the two saints heavenward in a burst of divine light, with putti and clouds creating Tiepolo's characteristic celestial architecture. The rich liturgical vestments provide opportunities for brilliant color passages against the luminous sky.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the two patron saints of the Patriarchate of Aquileia lifted heavenward in a burst of divine light, with putti and clouds creating celestial architecture.
- ◆Look at the rich liturgical vestments providing opportunities for brilliant color passages against the luminous sky.
- ◆Observe this monumental altarpiece composition where Hermagoras and Fortunatus ascend in Tiepolo's characteristic celestial grandeur.
