This remarkable late 16th-century fragment depicts Saint Magí, the patron saint of Tarragona, and Saint Mauro, a Benedictine monk. Produced in around 1580, on the cusp of the Anglo-Spanish War, this enchanting historical survivor probably once formed part of an altarpiece. Its fixings, many of which are original, have been left intact.

Born in the late third century, Saint Magí (or Saint Maginus) was a hermit who lived on Mount Brufaganya. He’s venerated for his martyrdom during the Roman persecution of Christians under Emperor Maximian. While Saint Mauro (or Saint Maurus) was raised in the monastic life during the sixth century and became renowned for the numerous miracles he performed, particularly on a journey from Italy to France. Both are carrying staves.

Stylistically, the work is comparable with those of the Catalan Gothic painter, Ramon de Mur (1380-1436), who was attached to the Tarragona school. Although somewhat later, it’s conceivable that it originated in a workshop in or around Tarragona by an artist who was aware of his oeuvre.

The panel is held within a custom iron cradle for presentation on a shelf or sideboard.

Thanks to the National Art Museum of Catalonia and author Marcel Pujol Hamelink.

Medium: Tempera on panel
Overall size: 31” x 23” / 69cm x 59cm
Year of creation: c. 1580
Provenance: Private collection, UK.
Condition: Cleaned. Areas of fine and settled craquelure, as you would expect. Losses. Discoloration. Various fixing nails proud of surface and abrasions.
Our reference: BRV1769