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The Master of the Female Half-Lengths , Netherlandish, 1500-1550

Title

The Temptation of Saint Anthony

Datec.1630

MediumOil on oak panel

Dimensions

35.6 x 26.5 cm

Credit LinePurchased, 1904

Object numberNGI.552

Exhibition HistoryCentenary Exhibition, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, October - December 1964

Label TextThe hermit Saint Anthony dwelled in the wilderness of Egypt. The 13th century Golden Legend recounts that the saint is tormented by demons, here characterised by two approaching nude women. However the saint overcomes their temptation through his faith. He prays before the crucifix displayed at his modest altar, and the skull reminds him of the vanity of life. On Saint Anthony's cloak is a 'tau' or 'Crux commissa'. The familiar emblem represented the saint's order of the Antonites, founded in 1095, who took care of the sick.