The artwork titled “St. Matthew,” created by the artist Fra Angelico, dates back to the period between 1423 and 1424. Executed in tempera on panel, this piece is a notable example of the Early Renaissance art movement. A segment of the “San Domenico Altarpiece,” it falls within the genre of religious painting. Presently, the artwork resides at the Musée Condé in Chantilly, France.

The artwork presents a religious figure traditionally identified as Saint Matthew, one of the four evangelists. He is depicted in a standing pose, cloaked in drapery of pink and blue hues, indicating a status of nobility and sanctity. The aureole around his head signifies his holy essence. In his left hand, he holds an open book, symbolic of his role as an author of the Gospel, while his right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing or teaching. The subtle modeling of his face and clothing, along with the controlled use of light and shadow, showcase the skill of Fra Angelico in imbuing the artwork with a sense of depth and form that was characteristic of this era’s shift towards greater naturalism.

The state of preservation of the artwork reflects its historical journey, with visible areas of craquelure and possible restoration. Nevertheless, the predominance of line and the harmonious color palette speak to the timeless nature of its craftsmanship, embodying a reflective and serene spirituality that is indicative of Fra Angelico’s devout approach to art.