Martyrdom of Saint Agatha in an Initial D 1467 - 1476

This illuminated initial "D" by Sano di Pietro, known as "Martyrdom of Saint Agatha in an Initial D", is a striking example of 15th-century Sienese art. The scene depicts the brutal torture of Saint Agatha, a Christian martyr, while an official watches from a throne. The intricate details of the figures and the vibrant colors are characteristic of Sano di Pietro's style. The use of gold leaf and delicate floral motifs in the border highlights the importance of the scene and its religious context. This miniature, a page from a larger manuscript, exemplifies the exquisite artistry of Sienese book illumination during this period.