The artwork, “St Augustine in his Study, predella panel from the Altarpiece of St Mark,” was crafted by the renowned Early Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli circa 1488-1490. Executed in tempera on panel and measuring 21 by 269 cm, this religious painting showcases a reflective scene of St. Augustine immersed in his scholarly pursuits. The painting is housed in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.
The artwork depicts St. Augustine seated within an austere, almost monastic study. His contemplative posture and the detailed depiction of his hands, holding a quill, signify his dedication to intellectual and spiritual endeavors. Behind him lies a tilted bookshelf, filled with manuscripts and scrolls, reinforcing the scholarly atmosphere. The saint’s green robe and golden halo serve as focal points, emphasizing his humility and sanctity amidst the sparse and somber environment. The painting is characterized by Botticelli’s meticulous attention to detail, use of perspective, and the serene, introspective mood typical of the Early Renaissance period.
