The Battle of San Romano 1438 - 40

By Paulo Uccello (about 1397 - 1475)

This painting shows a battle that was fought in Italy between two armies from Florence and Siena. In the middle you can see the leader of the victorious Florentine forces, Niccolo da Tolentino, on his white horse and carrying his marshal’s baton to lead the troops in to battle. Niccolo was thought to be a brave hero and the artist has made sure he stands out in his amazing red turban!

Look at all the knights in their shining armour. Elaborate helmets like the ones these soldiers are wearing were usually put on for tournaments, rather than real battles. When the painting was originally made, the armour was covered in real silver and the horses’ reins were covered in gold, which would have glittered in the light.

This painting is busy with clashing weapons, which create a decorative pattern across the front of the picture. The lances and flags are criss-crossed with trumpets, and some of the knights wave swords and axes. There is lots of movement and in the background you can see more soldiers loading and firing crossbows.

Imagine being a soldier at the battle of San Romano. How would you feel? What would you do?

_{Egg tempera with walnut oil and linseed oil on poplar
The National Gallery, London}

Back to Gallery