European Painting before 1900, Johnson Collection Reliquary Bust of Saint Benedict of Nursia Made in Italy, EuropeLate 15th century Artist/maker unknown, Italian Painted and gilded wood * Gallery 205, European Art 1100-1500, second floor Cat. 1135 John G. Johnson Collection, 1917 |
LabelThis bust can be identified as the Abbot Saint Benedict of Nursia (died 547) by the portrait of his sister, Saint Scholastica (died 543), on the back of his cope. A reliquary, it would have contained a piece of the saint's remains. Although the sculptor is unknown, the painting is by the Florentine artist Biagio d'Antonio (documented 1476–1504).* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit. |
