Paper

Student Artwork Guide

St John

Léonard Limosin, 1547

Name Class Date
Léonard Limosin, St John (1547), Musée des Beaux-Arts. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Léonard Limosin topimpressionists.com/en/artists/leonard-limosin/
Artist’s dates
1505 – 1575
Painted
1547
Original size
92 x 43 cm
Held at
Musée des Beaux-Arts topimpressionists.com/en/museums/musee-des-beaux-arts-chartres/

Copyright This work is in the public domain. Léonard Limosin died in 1575; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1645.

Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

St John — Léonard Limosin Part 1 · The artwork

In context

St John — Léonard Limosin

How big is it?

The original measures 92 × 43 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1500
  2. 1510
  3. 1520
  4. 1530
  5. 1540
  6. 1550
  7. 1560
  8. 1570

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 70 at death.

Painted when the artist was 42. The artist lived to 70. 2 of the 9 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Léonard Limosin (1505–1575) ▲ this work, 1547 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1547 Main working years: 1547–1556 Late works: from 1556

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: topimpressionists.com/en/art/similar/leonard-limosin-st-john-8XZMTQ-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Phthalo Green #301e22

    Catalogued palette

    • #301E22
    • #6A5757
    • #E0D8D7
    • #AD907F

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Main colour name
    Phthalo Green
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Softly Mixed Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Balanced How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Subtle Color How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Léonard Limosin over the last twelve months — 2 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 87.5%
    2. 2 United States of America 12.5%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 6 most looked-at works by Léonard Limosin

    1. 1 Crucifixion, 1553 40.0%
    2. 2 Tric-Trac Board, 1537 20.0%
    3. 3 The Resurrection, central panel of an altarpiece. 10.0%
    4. 4 Angel with the sponge and lance, two instruments of the Passion of Christ, detail of an altarpiece with the Resurrection, Limoges artwork. 10.0%
    5. 5 Angel with the Cross and St Veronica's veil, detail of an altarpiece with the Resurrection, Limoges artwork. 10.0%
    6. 6 St John, 1547 this painting 10.0%

    Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 18 works by this artist, of which 6 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 6 of them, with 10.0% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    St John — Léonard Limosin Part 2 · In context

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Léonard Limosin

    Born in France

    Biography

    Léonard Limosin (b. ca. 1505, Limoges, d. ca. 1575/77) stands as one of the most celebrated enamel painters of Renaissance France, a figure whose legacy continues to inspire admiration for his masterful technique and profound artistic vision. Born in Limoges – a city renowned for its vibrant enamel tradition – he descended from a family of seven skilled enamellers, establishing him within a lineage deeply rooted in this distinctive art form. While precise details surrounding his early life remain elusive, scholarly consensus suggests that Limosin honed his craft under the tutelage of Jean Nardon Pénaud, a prominent Limoges artist whose influence undoubtedly shaped his formative years.

    Early Influences: Limosin’s artistic journey commenced with an undeniable connection to German Renaissance art. His inaugural authenticated work, dated 1532, comprises eighteen enamel plaques depicting the Passion of Christ – a direct adaptation of prints by Albrecht Dürer. This stylistic debt underscores the pervasive impact of Northern European artistic sensibilities on French painters during this period.

    The Fontainebleau School: Recognizing the importance of broadening his artistic horizons, Limosin actively sought inspiration from the Italian masters residing at Fontainebleau Palace. Artists such as Primaticcio, Rosso Fiorentino, Giulio Romano and Andrea Solari captivated him with their innovative use of arabesque ornament and their exploration of mythological subjects—elements that would subsequently permeate his own oeuvre.

    Service to Royalty: In 1530 Limosin entered the service of Francis I as painter and valet de chambre, a position he maintained throughout Henry II’s reign. This patronage afforded him unparalleled access to royal commissions, resulting in numerous portraits executed in enamel—among them striking depictions of Diane de Poitiers, who served as Henry II's mistress, and elaborate decorative works adorning the palaces of Versailles and Fontainebleau.

    His artistic output spanned an astonishing breadth of mediums and subjects. While Limosin achieved particular renown for his richly coloured enamels – characterized by their luminous hues and graceful grisaille designs on black or bright blue backgrounds – he was equally adept as an oil painter, producing works that showcased remarkable realism and expressive power. His meticulous attention to detail and masterful handling of pigment cemented his reputation as a true innovator within the artistic landscape of his time.

    Major Achievements & Legacy

    Limosin’s contribution to art history is undeniable, primarily evidenced by his monumental achievement: the creation of approximately two thousand enamels—a staggering number that testifies to his prolific creativity and unwavering dedication to his craft. Among his most enduring masterpieces are the two votive tablets commissioned for Sainte Chapelle in Paris – a breathtaking assemblage of twenty-three plaques meticulously crafted according to Dürer’s designs, symbolizing faith and devotion. These tablets remain treasured relics of Gothic art, captivating visitors with their exquisite artistry and symbolic grandeur. Furthermore, Limosin's portraits—including depictions of Henry II, Marguerite de Valois, the Duke of Guise and Cardinal Lorraine—are considered cornerstones of Renaissance portraiture, capturing the dignity and complexity of royal figures with unparalleled skill. His works continue to be exhibited at prestigious institutions such as the Louvre Museum, ensuring that his artistic legacy persists for generations to come.

    Notable Works

    Limosin’s oeuvre encompasses a diverse range of projects—from monumental enamel plaques to intimate miniature paintings—each reflecting his distinctive stylistic sensibilities and technical prowess. His most celebrated achievements include:

    The Sainte Chapelle Votive Tablets

    Portraits of Henry II, Marguerite de Valois, Duke of Guise & Cardinal Lorraine

    Enamel Plaques Depicting Diane de Poitiers

    His enduring influence extends beyond his individual creations; Limosin’s artistic innovations profoundly shaped the trajectory of enamel painting in France and established him as a pivotal figure within the broader context of Renaissance art.

    Museum

    Musée des Beaux-Arts

    On show in Chartres, France

    A Journey Through Art & History at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Chartres

    Nestled within the historic Bishop's Palace (Palais Épiscopal) in the heart of Chartres, France, the

    Musée des Beaux-Arts

    offers a captivating journey through centuries of artistic expression. This museum is more than just an art gallery; it’s a cultural landmark that blends stunning architecture with a diverse and compelling collection.

    Specializations & Collection Highlights

    Ancient to Modern Art:

    The museum's holdings span a broad chronological range, encompassing works from antiquity through the modern era.

    European Masters:

    Discover exceptional paintings by renowned artists such as

    Zurbaran

    , known for his dramatic religious scenes, and

    Chardin

    , celebrated for his still lifes and genre paintings.

    Soutine’s Expressive Power:

    The museum boasts a significant collection of works by Chaim Soutine, showcasing his unique and emotionally charged style.

    Unique Harpsichord Collection:

    A truly distinctive feature is the museum's remarkable assemblage of harpsichords. This collection offers insight into the history of musical instruments and their craftsmanship.

    Sacred Art & Decorative Arts:

    Explore a range of sacred artworks alongside exquisite examples of decorative arts, providing context to the artistic traditions of the region.

    Architecture & History

    The museum’s location within the Palais Épiscopal is integral to its charm. The Bishop's Palace itself is a historical treasure, reflecting centuries of architectural evolution. Originally built as a fortified residence, it underwent numerous transformations over time, showcasing various styles.

    Historical Significance:

    The palace has served as the seat of power for bishops of Chartres for generations, witnessing pivotal moments in French history.

    Architectural Blend:

    Visitors can admire a blend of architectural influences within the palace walls, from medieval foundations to Renaissance embellishments.

    What Makes It Unique?

    The Musée des Beaux-Arts distinguishes itself through its harmonious combination of artistic treasures and historical setting. The juxtaposition of fine art within the grand halls of the Bishop's Palace creates a truly immersive experience. It’s not merely viewing art; it’s stepping back in time and experiencing the cultural legacy of Chartres.

    Plan your visit today to discover the beauty and history that await you at the Musée des Beaux-Arts!

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for St John

    topimpressionists.com/en/art/download/leonard-limosin-st-john-8XZMTQ-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Limosin, Léonard. St John. 1547, Musée des Beaux-Arts. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/leonard-limosin-st-john-8XZMTQ-en/
    APA
    Limosin, Léonard (1547). St John [Painting]. Musée des Beaux-Arts. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/leonard-limosin-st-john-8XZMTQ-en/
    Chicago
    Léonard Limosin. St John. 1547. Musée des Beaux-Arts. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/leonard-limosin-st-john-8XZMTQ-en/
    Harvard
    Limosin, Léonard (1547) St John. Musée des Beaux-Arts. Available at: https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/leonard-limosin-st-john-8XZMTQ-en/

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    St John — Léonard Limosin Part 3 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    St John — Léonard Limosin

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: saints. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Crucifixion (1553), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Léonard Limosin was about 42 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    St John — Léonard Limosin Part 4 · Look closely

    Questions & Answers

    How do I download the image of "St John" by Léonard Limosin?

    The image of "St John" by Léonard Limosin can be downloaded from the artwork's Download page: a high-resolution digital image download.

    Who created "St John" and in what year?

    Léonard Limosin made "St John" in 1547.

    Where do the visitors of "St John" by Léonard Limosin come from?

    The Stats page of "St John" by Léonard Limosin presents public visit statistics: monthly visits of this artwork, a comparison with the artist's most viewed works, and where its visitors come from.