“The Apostle Bartholomew” is an artwork created by the artist Duccio between 1308 and 1311. The piece is executed on wood using tempera as a medium and is part of the artist’s contribution to the “Maesta” series, reflecting the Proto Renaissance art movement. The genre of this artwork is religious painting, which was typical for the time, focusing on biblical figures and narratives.
In the artwork, the figure of the Apostle Bartholomew is depicted with great attention to detail and solemnity. Bartholomew is shown as a bearded man with dark curly hair and intense, direct gaze that engages the viewer. He is clothed in a richly colored orange-brown garment that drapes heavily over his shoulders and body, suggesting material weight and texture. The drapery is rendered with meticulous folds and shadows, which gives a strong sense of three-dimensionality.
The saint’s expression is serene and his eyes are large, a characteristic feature of Duccio’s figures, conveying a sense of spiritual wisdom and depth. His right hand is raised in a gesture that suggests teaching or blessing, while his left hand holds a knife, which is one of his traditional attributes, referencing his martyrdom. The painting is overlaid with a golden halo, intricately patterned with decorative motifs that radiate from Bartholomew’s head, emphasizing his holiness and divine connection.
The background appears simple and unadorned, which allows the figure of Bartholomew to stand out prominently. Fine cracks across the surface indicate the artwork’s age and the historical journey it has undergone. This piece is an excellent example of the early Renaissance style, bridging the gap between the Byzantine icon tradition and the more naturalistic portrayals that would develop later in the Renaissance. The religious iconography and the delicate, precise technique reflect the spiritual and artistic aspirations of the era.
