| Artist | Antonello da Messina |
|---|---|
| Year | 1475-76 |
| Type | Oil on panel |
| Dimensions | 55.9 cm × 35 cm (22.0 in × 14 in) |
| Location | Kunsthistoriches Museum, Vienna |
The San Cassiano Altarpiece is a painting by the Italian Renaissance master Antonello da Messina, dating to 1475-1476. Commissioned for the church of San Cassiano in Venice, it is now housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. It was one of the most influential paintings in the Veneto area of the time.[1]
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Originally a larger altarpiece, it now comprises only the central panel with the Virgin Enthroned, and four half-busts of saints: St. Nicholas of Bari, St. Mary Magdalene (or Ursula), St. Lucy and St. Dominic.
Allegedly inspired by another Holy Conversation by Giovanni Bellini in the church of San Giovanni e Paolo (now known only through copies), it feature however a more balance composition and a more sober architecture. Antonello adopted a pyramidal layout, enhanced by the accurate use of light.
The book with three golden balls hold by St. Nicholas alludes to the episode in which he gifted them to three girls to be used as dowry.