Artwork preview

Saint Ottilia

German 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a scene with a saint and an angel. The figure traditionally associated with a saint is dressed in dark robes, their head wrapped in a veil, and hands clasped in a gesture of prayer or reverence. Beside this figure is an angel carrying a chalice or container, with wings in subtle shades of white and grey. The background features large foliage and a building, creating a serene and spiritual setting. The color palette includes reds, greens, and blues, enhancing the sacred nature of the scene. The illustrative style with bold outlines and use of color suggests an early print-making technique, reminiscent of late medieval or early Renaissance artwork.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1480
Medium
woodcut in brown, hand-colored in black, green, red, yellow, blue, gold, and orange with tarnished silver leaf on laid paper
Dimensions
2481 × 3331 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette