Lorenzo Lotto, Saint Catherine, 1522
"Even when on view in a gallery full of striking works, Lorenzo Lotto’s half-length portrait of Saint Catherine has an unusual presence. Part of the sense of its loveliness comes from the beauty of the saint herself, but it’s not only her face that makes this painting so engaging. The colors reverberate; green and red are arranged in strong opposition. The green is intense, with hints of yellow in the highlights. The reds range from the deep burgundy hue of the velvety brocade curtain behind the saint to the bright-hot color of her dress. That dress adds amazing power—opulent, undulating folds of fabric reflect light, suggesting lustrous silk. ..."
National Gallery of Art
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This detail of Sandro Boticelli's "The Mystical Nativity" contains verdigris pigment.
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