Sts Geminianus and Severus 1560

Paolo Veronese created Sts Geminianus and Severus in the 16th century, using oil paint on canvas. Looking closely, you can see how Veronese coaxed luminosity from his materials, using thin layers of pigment to create depth, with rich, saturated colors that almost glow. The texture of the canvas support peeks through in places, adding another layer of visual interest. Think about the labor involved. Raw materials had to be sourced and processed, paints mixed by hand. Veronese would have carefully prepared his canvas, and built up the composition in stages. Each brushstroke contributes to the overall effect, capturing the play of light on fabric, the weight of the figures, and the solemnity of the scene. This was a skilled tradition, demanding years of apprenticeship. Considering the materiality and making of this painting allows us to appreciate Veronese’s technical virtuosity and understand how process shapes meaning. It bridges the gap between the artist's hand and the final image, offering a tangible connection to the past.