Armed Angel (Principatus) c. 14th century

Editor: This is "Armed Angel (Principatus)" by Guariento di Arpo. It's quite striking; the angel's armour seems so meticulously rendered. What stands out to you about the materials and methods used here? Curator: Note how the gold leaf and egg tempera served specific socio-economic functions. Consider the labor involved in preparing these materials, and how this impacted the artwork's value and reception. Editor: So, it's not just about aesthetics, but about the means of production? Curator: Precisely! The materials themselves tell a story about patronage, craftsmanship, and the economics of art production in the 14th century. Think of the consumption of these artworks by wealthy patrons. Editor: That's a very different way of seeing it. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure.