Master of Griselda

Master of Griselda (unknown), Italian, The Master of Griselda, also known as the Master of the Legend of Saint Griselda, was an Italian painter active in Siena during the 15th century. His name derives from a series of three panels depicting stories of the ancient heroine Griselda, now housed in the National Gallery in London. These works, along with others attributed to him, showcase his skill in tempera on panel, a medium prevalent during the Italian Renaissance. Among his most celebrated pieces is the depiction of Artemisia, a testament to his ability to portray virtuous figures from antiquity with grace and detail. This painting, dating from around 1498, is part of the collection at the Museo Poldi Pezzoli. The Master of Griselda's contributions to Sienese art reflect the enduring influence of Gothic traditions blended with the emerging Renaissance ideals of his time. His works are characterized by their narrative clarity, delicate figures, and the use of gold leaf, elements that were highly valued in the artistic circles of 15th-century Siena.