Giovanni di Paolo (Giovanni di Paolo di Grazia), Italian (active Siena), first securely documented 1411, died 1482 – Saint Nicholas of Tolentino Saving a Ship Philadelphia Museum of Art

The composition presents a dramatic narrative unfolding within a deeply shadowed landscape. A large ship dominates the central foreground, its structure meticulously detailed with visible timbering and railings. Numerous figures populate the deck; their attire suggests varied social standings, some clad in elaborate robes while others wear simpler garments. They appear to be observing an event occurring above them, their gazes directed upwards.
Above the vessel, a figure stands suspended against a dark expanse. This individual is distinguished by a red headdress and a gesture of extended hand, seemingly offering intervention or guidance. Surrounding this central figure are several winged entities, rendered in pale tones that contrast sharply with the surrounding darkness. These beings appear to be descending towards the ship, their forms ethereal and somewhat unsettling.
The lower portion of the painting is characterized by a textured ground cover, punctuated by what appears to be a recumbent animal – a canine perhaps – lying prostrate on the earth. The overall color palette is restrained, relying heavily on dark hues with selective use of red and pale tones for emphasis.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of divine intervention and salvation amidst peril. The ship likely symbolizes humanity or a community facing adversity, while the figure above represents a benevolent force offering assistance. The winged beings could be interpreted as messengers or intermediaries between the earthly realm and the divine. The presence of the animal on the ground introduces an element of vulnerability and perhaps sacrifice. The darkness enveloping the scene contributes to a sense of foreboding and uncertainty, heightening the impact of the figure’s intervention. The meticulous detail in depicting both the ships structure and the figures suggests a focus on tangible reality even while portraying supernatural events.