“The Funeral of St. Stephen,” created by the artist Filippo Lippi circa 1460, is a fresco that belongs to the Early Renaissance art movement. Categorized as a religious painting, this artwork depicts the somber moment of St. Stephen’s funeral.
In the artwork, Lippi employs the style characteristic of the Early Renaissance, showcasing a highly detailed and balanced composition. The scene takes place within an architectural setting marked by classical columns and a coffered ceiling, echoing the structure of a basilica or church. The focus is on the central figure of St. Stephen, whose body lies elegantly draped upon a bier, surrounded by solemn mourners who exhibit a range of emotional expressions. The figures are precisely rendered, demonstrating Lippi’s mastery in capturing human emotion and his adept use of perspective, which provides depth and realism to the scene. A cross is observed in the background, reinforcing the religious tone of the fresco. The fresco exemplifies the convergence of religious narrative and artistic innovation typical of the Early Renaissance period.
