Artwork

Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila

Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila, by Unknown, unspecified, 1215
Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila, by Unknown, unspecified, 1215

Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila is an unspecified painting by the Romanesque artist Unknown. It dates from 1215 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

About this work

Overview

The altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila is a painted panel that presents a seated Christ on a throne, surrounded by a procession of figures. All participants wear robes and bear halos, and they are arranged in a linear composition that directs attention toward the central figure.

Subject & Meaning

The central motif depicts the enthroned Christ, a common iconographic theme emphasizing his divine authority. The accompanying haloed figures, likely saints or angels, reinforce the sacred hierarchy and collective reverence toward the Savior.

Technique & Style

Executed in vivid pigments, the work employs a palette dominated by reds, yellows, and blues, set against a dark green background. The figures are rendered frontally with solemn expressions, characteristic of the formal, stylized approach of medieval altar frontals.

History & Provenance

Originally created for the church of Sant Romà de Vila, the panel now resides in a museum collection where it is displayed alongside other works from the same period, offering insight into regional devotional art.

Altar frontal from Santa Maria in Taüll
Altar frontal from Santa Maria in Taüll, Unknown

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila?

Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila was painted by Unknown in 1215.

Where can I see Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila?

Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila is held by Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

What movement is Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila?

Altar frontal from Sant Romà de Vila is associated with Romanesque.