Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

Panel from a Saints' Calendar (painted on both sides) by http://www.wikidata.org/.well-known/genid/474aafd2b4164d1438879bf24672f090

http://www.wikidata.org/.well-known/genid/474aafd2b4164d1438879bf24672f090 · 1600-01-01

This intriguing "Panel from a Saints' Calendar" (c. 1600), by an unknown artist, once served a devotional purpose, likely as part of a liturgical calendar. Painted on both sides, it presents a unique glimpse into religious art from its era.

Observe the distinct features of each figure: the cross on one figure's hat suggests a saint or bishop, while another's staff and book point to a prophet. The bare feet of a central figure symbolize humility and holiness, typical iconography for such a scene.

The faded inscription at the top, though hard to read today, would have identified these holy figures to their original viewers. This panel's flat, symbolic style, rather than realistic depiction, emphasizes spiritual meaning over earthly presence.

Such works were crucial to devotional practices, inviting contemplation of divine truths through carefully coded imagery. What stories do you imagine these saints told?

Details

The cross on this figure's hat indicates a saint or bishop.
The cross on this figure's hat indicates a saint or bishop.
This figure's staff and book identify him as a prophet.
This figure's staff and book identify him as a prophet.
The faint inscription at the top likely names these figures.
The faint inscription at the top likely names these figures.
The presence of wings clearly indicates a celestial being, adding a divine dimension to the scene.
The presence of wings clearly indicates a celestial being, adding a divine dimension to the scene.
Transcript

This devotional panel was painted on both sides. The cross on this figure's hat indicates a saint or bishop. This figure's staff and book identify him as a prophet. And the bare feet of this figure signify humility and holiness. The faint inscription at the top likely names these figures. Together, they formed a visual saints' calendar for contemplation.