Saints Peter, Martha, Mary Magdalen, and Leonard  1515

This is an early work by one of the most original geniuses of the Renaissance. Commissioned for a church in Correggio's hometown, it depicts four saints chosen by the patron, Melchiore Fassi: Peter, with his keys; Martha, her dragon; Mary Magdalen, her pot of ointment; and Leonard, with his fetters. Each stands separately, absorbed in his or her own thoughts. In this altar...