Saint James the Greater (with the Virgin of the Annunciation) 1389 - 1435

Martino di Bartolommeo di Biagio created "Saint James the Greater (with the Virgin of the Annunciation)," sometime between the late 14th and early 15th century. Consider the historical and cultural context in which Bartolommeo crafted this piece. The image of Saint James the Greater is part of a long tradition in Christian art of portraying saints as figures of authority and wisdom. During the early Renaissance, artists began to humanize these figures, giving them more naturalistic features and emotional depth. Bartolommeo's Saint James reflects this shift, portraying the saint with a sense of solemnity, but also a hint of empathy. Saint James holds a book, symbolizing his knowledge and spiritual authority, while the Virgin of the Annunciation hovers above, representing divine grace and the promise of salvation. The placement of the Virgin above Saint James creates a visual hierarchy, reinforcing the Church's teachings about the roles of men and women. The emotional depth of the piece invites us to reflect on our own beliefs. The way in which Bartolommeo reflects societal norms serves as a reminder of how art shapes and reflects the values of its time.