Saint Mark and Saint Matthew (San Domenico de Fiesole altarpiece)

Localisation : The Tribune
Année de création :Circa 1425
Artiste :Guido di Pietro, Fra Giovanni, known as Fra Angelico

Description

The two panels come from the high altarpiece of the church of San Domenico de Fiesole, very close to Florence, the church in Fra Angelico’s monastery. This monk and artist had trained in illumination: the minute detail of this technique can be seen in these works depicting the evangelists Mark and Matthew, recognisable by the lion and the angel, their attributes. The quill and the book highlight the time of writing of the gospels, inspired by the Word, as highlighted by the angel whispering in Matthew’s ear. The luminous use of colours on the gold background that would vibrate in the light of the church candles demonstrates the painter’s virtuosity. His characters, which are more embodied, with more lively garments, inaugurate a more human-centred approach, an interest in imitation of nature that animated Florence painters in the early 15th century.