Manuscript Illumination with Saint Dominic Saving the Church of Saint John Lateran in an Initial A, from a Gradual

Unknown

mid-15th century · Tempera, ink, and gold on parchment · Medieval Art

Dominicans believe that Pope Innocent III allowed their order to be established after he dreamed that Saint Dominic saved the church of Saint John Lateran-the pope's own parish church in Rome-from collapse by throwing his own weight against its walls. Here, the artist showed cracks in the walls, emphasizing the church's shaky foundations and the heroic efforts of the saint.

Artist

Unknown

Date

mid-15th century

Medium

Tempera, ink, and gold on parchment

Culture

Italian

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Bequest of Gwynne M. Andrews, 1930