Gospel in Art: Solemnity of Saint George, Martyr

Saint George, by Donatello, Sculpted between 1415-1417 © Bargello Museum, Florence

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 23 April 2024
John 15:18-21

Jesus said to his disciples:

'If the world hates you, remember that it hated me before you.

If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you do not belong to the world, because my choice withdrew you from the world, therefore the world hates you.

Remember the words I said to you: A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you too; if they kept my word, they will keep yours as well.

But it will be on my account that they will do all this, because they do not know the one who sent me.'

Reflection on the Sculpture

Saint George, widely venerated as a Christian martyr and the patron saint of various entities including England, soldiers, and scouts, was a historical figure who lived during the late 3rd century AD in the Roman province of Cappadocia, which is now modern-day Turkey. Little is known about his early life, but according to tradition, George was a Roman soldier who courageously professed his Christian faith and refused to renounce it, even in the face of persecution. The most famous legend about him recounts how he heroically defeated a fearsome dragon that was terrorizing the city of Silene, rescued a princess and converted the city's inhabitants to Christianity. Despite the mythical elements surrounding his story, Saint George's steadfast devotion to his faith and his unwavering courage in the face of adversity have made him a beloved and revered figure in Christian tradition, celebrated for his virtues of bravery, chivalry, and selflessness.

Our Saint George sculpture is by Donatello. It is one of fourteen commissioned by the guilds of Florence to decorate the external niches of the Orsanmichele church in Florence. St George was commissioned by the guild of the armorers and sword makers (the Arte dei Corazzai e Spadai). Saint George is sculptured as a young, brave, determined and strong man in armour. He is not standing in contrapposto, although his right leg is turned to the same angle as his shield, visibly his weight is on both legs. Even though he is fully clothed, there is still the sense of a muscular body underneath, typically Renaissance sculpture. His right hand originally probably held some sort of a blade. Drill marks on his head indicate that he probably also wore some kind of (bronze) helmet or (gold) wreath. St George's eyes are looking up and his face indicates some kind of anxiety and emotionality before attacking the dragon.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/john-15-18-21-2024/
Competition: The Laudamus Award 2024 for Sacred Art - www.indcatholicnews.com/news/4931