The Stefaneschi Triptych 1330

The Stefaneschi Triptych was made by Giotto in the early 14th century, most likely using tempera paints on wood panels. The qualities of the materials are evident everywhere, from the smooth, almost glowing surfaces of the figures' skin to the tooled gold leaf backgrounds. The work’s luminous effect is achieved with tempera, which involved mixing powdered pigments with egg yolk, a fast-drying medium allowing for precise, layered brushwork and the creation of vibrant colors. The traditional technique dates back to antiquity, but its application here elevates the scenes with its jewel-like quality. Giotto was tasked with creating a devotional object, but the material reality infuses the artwork with a tangible sense of both labor and expense. This demonstrates the value placed on religious devotion during the medieval period. Appreciating the technical and material circumstances of its creation allows us to see beyond traditional categories of fine art.