4 Cortona Polyptych, predella – St Peter Martyr, Innocent III dream Fra Angelico (1400-1455)

The composition unfolds across three distinct registers, each contributing to a narrative sequence centered on religious devotion and divine revelation. The leftmost panel presents a figure in monastic garb standing within an arched niche. He holds a large, open book before him, his gaze directed downwards as if engaged in reading or contemplation. A halo encircles his head, signifying sanctity. The architectural setting is minimal, emphasizing the solitary nature of this devotional act and creating a sense of quiet reverence.
The central panel introduces a more dynamic scene. Here we see a figure, also clad in monastic robes, gesturing upwards with an expression of astonishment or supplication. He appears to be reacting to something beyond his immediate perception. Behind him, within what seems to be an interior space, a bed is visible. Upon the bed lies another figure, presumably asleep, and above them hangs a mirror reflecting a papal insignia – a tiara. This detail suggests a dream vision or divine communication received by the sleeping individual. The pink hue of the wall behind the dreamer creates a visual separation from the rest of the scene, highlighting its significance as a moment of otherworldly revelation.
The rightmost panel depicts two figures embracing in what appears to be an intimate and consoling gesture. Both are similarly attired in monastic robes and possess halos, indicating shared spiritual status. The setting is again architectural, with windows suggesting an interior space. This final scene seems to represent the aftermath or consequence of the dream vision witnessed in the central panel – perhaps a confirmation or acceptance of its message.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of faith, prophecy, and divine intervention. The open book in the first register symbolizes knowledge and religious study, while the dream sequence in the center introduces an element of mystery and supernatural communication. The embrace at the end suggests comfort, reassurance, and a shared understanding derived from this experience. The use of architectural framing throughout creates a sense of enclosure and focuses attention on the figures and their actions, reinforcing the solemnity and importance of the narrative being presented. The limited color palette – dominated by earth tones with accents of pink and gold – contributes to the overall feeling of austerity and spiritual focus.