The artwork, titled “St. Matthew the Evangelist,” is a creation of Andrei Rublev, dating back to approximately 1400, and originating from Moscow, Russian Federation. Belonging to the Byzantine and Moscow school of icon painting movements, this miniature is a part of the “Khitrovo Gospels” series. The artwork is currently housed in the Russian State Library in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork depicts St. Matthew the Evangelist engaged in the act of writing. He is seated on a carved wooden bench, dressed in flowing blue and white robes, and is shown holding a quill in his right hand while his left hand steadies a book with a red cover. The background features architectural elements with an intricate blend of blue and brown, creating a sacred and contemplative atmosphere. The intricate detailing and the use of color reflect the distinctive characteristics of Byzantine iconography, accentuating the spiritual and transcendental quality of the artwork.
