Saint Benedict 1320s

This tempera on poplar panel painting titled "Saint Benedict" by Segna di Buonaventura was created in the 1320s. The piece depicts Saint Benedict holding a book, likely a Bible or Rule of Saint Benedict. The artist was born in 1298 and died in 1331, active in the early 14th century. The painting, which is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection in New York, features a realistic depiction of the saint with a calm and dignified expression. The work exemplifies the style of Sienese painting during this period, which was characterized by its attention to detail, use of gold leaf, and emphasis on the spiritual and devotional aspects of the subject matter.