Master of Arguis facts for kids
The Master of Arguis was a talented artist from Aragon, a region in Spain. He was active in the first half of the 15th century, which means he created his art between about 1400 and 1450. We don't know his real name, so he is called "Master of Arguis" after one of his most important artworks.
His art style was similar to other artists of his time, like Juan de Levi and Bonanat Zaortiga. He was part of a popular art movement called International Gothic. This style was known for its detailed, elegant, and often colorful paintings.
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Who Was the Master of Arguis?
The artist got his special name from a large artwork called a retable. This retable was made for Saint Michael around the year 1440. A retable is a big, decorated screen or wall piece placed behind the altar in a church.
The Saint Michael Altarpiece
This important artwork was once the main altarpiece for a church in a town called Arguis. Today, you can see it in the famous Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.
The painting shows a story where Saint Michael defeats a powerful evil figure. The artist focused a lot on this evil figure, showing it pierced by Saint Michael's spear.
What the Painting Shows
The scene in the painting includes many different kinds of people. You can see kings and noblemen, who were important people in society. There are also religious figures, like priests or saints.
At the bottom of the painting, you can spot a papal tiara and a sceptre. These are symbols of great power. In the story, the evil figure tries to claim this power, pretending to be a new leader.
Other Famous Works
Besides the Saint Michael altarpiece, two other paintings are believed to be by the Master of Arguis. Both of these artworks are dedicated to Saint Anne.
One of these paintings is located in Barcelona, another big city in Spain. The other painting is a small triptych. A triptych is an artwork made of three panels that are joined together. This triptych is found in a church in Alquezar.
See also
In Spanish: Maestro de Arguis para niños
