Saint Bernardino Preaching from a Pulpit by Francesco di Giorgio

Francesco di Giorgio · 1470-01-01

This painting, "Saint Bernardino Preaching from a Pulpit" by Francesco di Giorgio, painted in 1470, is a fascinating example of a Renaissance polymath's lesser-known work. While Francesco di Giorgio Martini is celebrated as an architect and engineer, this piece at The Metropolitan Museum of Art shows his talent as a painter.

The artist's keen eye for structure and detail, honed through his architectural and engineering pursuits, is evident in the humble wooden pulpit. Notice the visible nails and the texture of the wood, which ground the spiritual message in a tangible, earthy setting. The vibrant blue background and red border frame Saint Bernardino, drawing focus to his fervent expression and gestural hand.

Francesco di Giorgio Martini built nearly seventy fortifications, including early star-shaped designs, for Federico da Montefeltro. This painting provides a unique insight into how his diverse skills influenced each other, offering a rare look at a master builder's artistic side.

What other subtle details do you notice that speak to his engineering background?

Details

But he also painted, like in this portrait of Saint Bernardino.

Look closely at the rough wood of the pulpit.

Every nail holding the planks together is visible.

The strong red border frames the scene, adding a sense of importance and visual emphasis.

Transcript

This painter was an engineer, an architect, and a sculptor. He built nearly 70 fortifications, including star-shaped ones. But he also painted, like in this portrait of Saint Bernardino. Look closely at the rough wood of the pulpit. Every nail holding the planks together is visible. His attention to construction details crosses over from engineering. A rare glimpse of a master builder's painting skill.