St. Bartolus 1465

Benozzo Gozzoli painted this fresco of St. Bartolus in the Sant'Agostino Church in San Gimignano. The artwork is dominated by vertical lines, enhancing the figure’s elongated form and creating a sense of solemnity. The limited palette of blues and reds, combined with the saint’s serene expression, evokes a contemplative mood. Gozzoli employs color not just decoratively but structurally. The contrasting reds of the book and underdress against the blue robe create a visual rhythm, guiding the viewer's eye. The lines of the drapery emphasize the verticality while adding depth through subtle shading. This careful arrangement suggests an understanding of how visual elements convey meaning. The architectural frame around the saint places him in dialogue with the physical space of the church, merging the sacred image with the viewer’s reality. Ultimately, Gozzoli’s strategic use of color and line serves not only to depict St. Bartolus but also to construct a visual theology.