Saint Florian 1455 - 1465

This vibrant image of Saint Florian was made sometime in the 15th century by an artist known only as Casper. The illuminated manuscript shows Saint Florian, a Roman soldier, often invoked against fires, standing before a burning building. Made in the Holy Roman Empire, this artwork reflects a culture steeped in religious symbolism and the ever-present dangers of urban life. Cities, largely constructed of wood, were extremely vulnerable to fires. Saint Florian became a symbol of divine intervention against this constant threat. Interestingly, illuminated manuscripts, while religious, also served as status symbols, commissioned by wealthy individuals or institutions. The meticulous detail and use of precious pigments speak to the economic structures that supported artistic production. We learn about the culture that made this image through researching period documents, architectural plans of cities, and records of religious practices. It is through such historical inquiry that we can appreciate the complex cultural significance of this artwork.