The stoning of Stephen 1449

Fra Angelico created this fresco of the stoning of Stephen in the mid-15th century, using ground pigments mixed with water on fresh plaster. This process, painting directly onto a wall, is called ‘fresco’ from the Italian word for ‘fresh.’ The quick application demanded a commitment and confidence from the artist to ensure the paint was absorbed into the plaster before it dried. As you can see, the figures and landscape are rendered with precision, the artist building up each section of the composition, day by day, ‘fresco a giorno’. The permanence of fresco imbues the scene with a sense of solemnity. The use of vibrant colors, like the intense blues and reds, enhances the emotional depth of the story. By working with such a direct and unforgiving process, Fra Angelico has ensured that this artwork remains a powerful testament to faith and artistic skill. It's a reminder that the beauty and impact of art often lie in the connection between materials, process, and context.