Predella Panel. St Albert Presents the Rule to the Carmelites 1329

This predella panel, "St Albert Presents the Rule to the Carmelites," was painted in 1329 by the Italian artist Pietro Lorenzetti. The scene depicts St Albert, Bishop of Ratisbon, presenting the rule of the Carmelite order to a group of monks. The painting is a vivid example of Sienese art, known for its rich colors, detailed figures, and narrative scenes. The panel's perspective, with its receding hills and buildings, suggests a growing awareness of naturalism in art. The scene is set outdoors, and the landscape adds to the sense of realism, as does the attention to detail in the clothing and accessories of the figures. The panel is one of several that originally formed part of an altarpiece, possibly commissioned by a Carmelite community, and is a valuable example of Italian art of the early 14th century.