A Legend of Saints Justus and Clement of Volterra
- Artist: Domenico Ghirlandaio
- Date: probably 1479
- Medium: egg tempera on wood
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is the "A Legend of Saints Justus and Clement of Volterra" by Domenico Ghirlandaio. Painted in the Italian north, it's a beautiful example of 15th-century art. The scene depicts two saints coming to the aid of their city, which was under siege by the Vandals.
You see, the people were starving, but thanks to the prayers of the saints, the granaries were miraculously filled and they could finally bake some bread. The saints then offered this bread to their enemies at the gates of the fortified city, following the instruction from the Book of Romans to "if thine enemy hunger, feed him".
It's a powerful message about kindness and compassion, even in times of conflict. Notice how the soldiers are depicted eating the bread and eventually leaving the city with their weapons. It's a wonderful example of the artistry and skill of Domenico Ghirlandaio.
This painting was originally part of an altarpiece, which would have been placed above this panel. The main panel shows the Virgin and Child surrounded by various saints, including Justus. Unfortunately, that part is now in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, but we're lucky to have this beautiful predella panel here for us to enjoy.
See it in person
A Legend of Saints Justus and Clement of Volterra hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
