Saint Anthony (verso) by Master of the View of Saint Gudula

Saint Anthony (verso)

Master of the View of Saint Gudula · 1467

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“This painting of Saint Anthony is the reverse of a larger work, offering a glimpse into late 15th-century devotional art with its meticulous detail and symbolic imagery.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This small panel painting, depicting Saint Anthony, is the reverse side of another work, likely part of a devotional diptych or triptych. Here, the saint stands in a landscape, holding his characteristic T-shaped staff and accompanied by a pig, his traditional attribute. The artist, known as the Master of the View of Saint Gudula, was active in Brussels during the late 15th century, a period when Early Netherlandish painters were celebrated for their meticulous detail and rich color. The work captures the quiet contemplation of the saint, inviting viewers to consider his solitary life and spiritual devotion. The careful rendering of the drapery and the serene expression on Saint Anthony's face are typical of the era, reflecting a focus on both naturalism and religious narrative.

DETAILS
Artist
Master of the View of Saint Gudula
Date
1467
Medium
Oil on panel
Location
Bowes Museum
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What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Saint Anthony (verso)
01

The T-shaped staff, a symbol of Saint Anthony’s monastic order.

02

The small pig at the saint’s feet, his traditional companion.

03

The detailed landscape receding into the background.

04

The saint’s contemplative expression.

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THE ARTIST

Master of the View of Saint Gudula

This enigmatic Early Netherlandish painter, active in Brussels, is known for his detailed religious scenes and portraits of church patrons.

Read Gudula’s full story
MORE FROM THIS ARTIST

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Beyond Gudula: works from the same years.

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