Het martelaarschap van H. Appolonia c. 1460 - 1470

Simon Marmion created this miniature painting, The Martyrdom of St. Apollonia, likely in the 15th century, using tempera and gold leaf on parchment. The bright colors and fine details are characteristic of the late medieval period, but look closer and you see the under drawing, which emphasizes the skill and labor involved in producing such a small, intricate scene. Consider the preparation of the parchment itself, made from animal skin, stretched and scraped to create a smooth surface. Pigments were derived from minerals, plants, or insects, ground and mixed with egg yolk to create tempera paint. The application of gold leaf, a delicate process requiring specialized tools and techniques, adds to the sense of luxury and preciousness. The miniaturist tradition demonstrates the value placed on skilled craftsmanship during the medieval period, but also the cultural and social forces that shaped its production. The materials and techniques reflect a society deeply rooted in religious belief and a hierarchical social structure.