St George and the Dragon
Tempera On Panel
Renaissance
1502
Renaissance
141.0 x 360.0 cm
Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni
The painting St George and the Dragon by Vittore Carpaccio is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the texture and form of his subjects. Created in 1502, this tempera on wood panel painting measures 141 x 360 cm and is housed at the Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni in Venice, Italy.
The story of St George and the Dragon has been a popular subject in art throughout history, with many artists interpreting the legend in their own unique way. Vittore Carpaccio's version is one of the most famous and enduring, and its beauty and significance continue to captivate audiences today.
The Composition
The central figure of the painting is St George, a knight dressed in armor, riding a horse. The horse under him is captured mid-gallop, adding a sense of dynamism to the scene. In front of St George, there's a dragon that occupies the right side of the painting, depicted in a menacing pose. The background features a landscape with buildings and trees, providing context for the scene.Artistic Significance
The painting is rich in detail and color, with the use of light and shadow creating a sense of three-dimensionality. The figures are rendered with lifelike proportions and expressions, contributing to the overall realism of the scene. Tempera was the primary medium used by Vittore Carpaccio, and his mastery of this technique is evident in the painting.- The painting's size and complexity demonstrate Vittore Carpaccio's skill as a Renaissance artist.
- The use of tempera on wood panels allowed for a level of detail and precision that was unparalleled at the time.
- The painting's narrative is engaging, with the confrontation between St George and the dragon drawing the viewer in.
The story of St George and the Dragon has been a popular subject in art throughout history, with many artists interpreting the legend in their own unique way. Vittore Carpaccio's version is one of the most famous and enduring, and its beauty and significance continue to captivate audiences today.
Vittore Carpaccio (1465 – 1526)
Explore the captivating Venetian Renaissance paintings of Vittore Carpaccio (1465-1526). Known for narrative cycles like 'The Legend of St. Ursula,' his work blends early Netherlandish & Italian styles with a unique orientalist flair. Discover his le
Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni (Venice, Italy)
Discover the Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni in Venice! Explore stunning Venetian Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Vittore Carpaccio, and delve into the rich history of this hidden cultural gem.
About this artwork
- Title: St George and the Dragon
- Artist: Vittore Carpaccio
- Year: 1502
- Original dimensions: 141.0 x 360.0 cm
- Format: Panoramic
- Copyright status: Public domain
- Where to see it: Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni
- Medium: Tempera On Panel
- Creative period: Mature Period
- Main color: Espresso
Quick Facts
- Influences:
- Antonello da Messina
- Early Netherlandish art
- Subject or theme: St George defeating the dragon
- Notable elements: Light, shadow, and three-dimensionality
- Medium: Tempera on wood panel
- Year: 1502
- Artist: Vittore Carpaccio
- Title: St George and the Dragon