Saint Paul c. 1460

Vincenzo Foppa created this panel painting of Saint Paul, likely in the late 15th century, using tempera and gold leaf on wood. The smooth, luminous surface is achieved through the meticulous layering of egg tempera, a traditional technique involving pigments mixed with egg yolk. The gold leaf, applied to the background and details, adds a sense of divine radiance. These materials were prized for their ability to create rich, vibrant colors and a sense of otherworldly beauty. The process involved numerous skilled artisans, from those preparing the wooden panel to the painters and gilders themselves. This reflects a system of workshop production prevalent during the Renaissance, where specialized labor was essential for creating such refined works. Foppa's "Saint Paul" exemplifies how the materiality and making of art are deeply connected to the social and economic structures of its time, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.