Artwork
Saint Roch
Saint Roch is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Francesco Francia. It dates from 1502 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The work portrays Saint Roch, the central figure of this early sixteenth-century religious painting by Francesco Francia.
The work portrays Saint Roch, the central figure of this early sixteenth-century religious painting by Francesco Francia. Executed in tempera on panel in 1502, the composition was intended for private devotion and later entered the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. As a depiction of a saint traditionally invoked for protection against plague, the image functions as a visual expression of contemporary faith and the cult of intercessory saints.
Technique & Style
Executed in 1502, the painting is rendered in tempera on panel, consistent with Francesco Francia's working practice at the turn of the sixteenth century. The handling combines smooth, enamel-like glazes over a gesso ground, producing a refined luminosity in the saint's drapery and delicate modeling of facial features. The figure's upward glance and the restrained palette emphasize spiritual contemplation while maintaining a measured classical balance characteristic of Bolognese painting of the period.
History & Provenance
The painting Saint Roch by Francesco Francia is dated to 1502. The work was created in tempera on panel and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is catalogued within the museum's holdings. It measures 216.5 cm in height and 150.8 cm in width. No specific accession number or exhibition history is documented in the available records.
Overview
Francesco Francia, a Bolognese artist, completed Saint Roch in 1502 using tempera. This painting belongs to the early Renaissance period and depicts the titular religious figure. It is currently part of the collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, representing a key work by an artist also recognized for his skills as a goldsmith and medallist.
Context
Francesco Francia was a prominent artist active in Bologna during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. His diverse talents extended beyond painting to include the creation of intricate goldsmith work and medals. Saint Roch stands as an example of his painting output, reflecting the artistic trends and devotional subjects prevalent in early Renaissance Italy.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francesco Francia, whose real name was Francesco Raibolini (1447 – 5 January 1517), was an Italian painter, goldsmith, and medallist from Bologna, who was also director of the city mint.
