Destruction of the Pagan Idols c. 1390

Martino di Bartolomeo's "Destruction of the Pagan Idols" (c. 1390), housed in the Städel Museum, depicts a pivotal moment in the life of Saint Nicholas of Bari. The painting, rendered in a characteristic Gothic style, illustrates the moment when Nicholas, with a gesture of his hand, brings down the pagan idols from their niches in a temple. This dramatic scene showcases the saint's unwavering faith and his power to overcome the forces of idolatry. The scene is set against a backdrop of a walled city, and the saint stands in the foreground, surrounded by onlookers, each expressing varying degrees of awe and fear. The artist's use of vibrant colors and detailed brushwork contribute to the painting's visual impact, emphasizing the momentous nature of the event.