Cesare Bassano after Luca Ciamberlano, (Italian, fl. 1599–1641), Saint James the Greater, ca. 1606–1607, Engraving on paper, 24 x 31 in., Gift of George H. Sullivan, 1950.23
January 15 - April 3, 2022

Legends of the Saints

Prior to the Enlightenment, the Church was the single most important patron of the arts in Europe. As a result, most of the art produced was religious in nature, celebrating the sacred figures of the Christian faith. This exhibition started with the question: when it comes to those not included in the books of the Bible, where did the stories come from? Specifically, where did Christians - including Christian artists - get their information about the lives of the saints? The short answer is, from The Golden Legend, a 13th century compilation that swiftly became a medieval bestseller, second only to the Bible in manuscript copies, printed editions and translations. The paintings in this installation, all from our museum’s collection and dating from the late 15th through the 18th centuries, illustrate the continued prevalence of such representations right up to the end of the early modern era, and unpack some of the stories that continue to fascinate.

See the 360-degree virtual view of this exhibition.

Follower of Peter Paul Rubens, (Flemish, 1577-1640), The Virgin and Child Adored by Saints, ca. 1630, Oil on canvas, 31 1/2 x 25 in., Gift of Marjorie Myers Ginn, Francis B. Myers II, John C. Myers, Jr., and Everett M. Myers in memory of John C. Myers, Sr., 1957.11

Normal Hours of Operation:
Monday closed
Tuesday 10am–7pm
Wednesday-Friday 10am–4pm
Saturday-Sunday Noon–5pm


407.646.2526
1000 Holt Avenue-2765
Winter Park, FL 32789