Saint Florian 1455 - 1465

"Saint Florian" (c. 1455-1465) is a small-scale painting by Casper, a German painter, now held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The painting depicts Saint Florian, a 3rd-century Roman soldier, standing in front of a burning town. Saint Florian is a patron saint of firefighters, and this painting likely depicts a scene from his legend in which he was martyred by drowning. Casper's painting is a fine example of German Renaissance art, demonstrating its unique mix of realism and religious subject matter. The painting's vivid colors, detailed figures, and use of perspective create a sense of depth and realism.