Saint Francis: side panel from a triptych c. 15th century

Editor: This is Niccolò da Foligno’s Saint Francis, a side panel from a triptych. I’m drawn to the texture of the drapery and the detail of the stigmata. What can you tell me about the materiality of this piece? Curator: Notice the scale and the use of tempera paint. Think about the labor involved in grinding pigments and applying gold leaf. This wasn't just about depicting Saint Francis; it was a display of wealth and the value placed on religious imagery. How do you think the consumption of such an artwork shaped society? Editor: It's fascinating to think about the economics intertwined with the spiritual devotion. Thanks for the insight! Curator: My pleasure! It's a reminder that art is always a product of its time and the resources available.