A Closer Look: Saints

Part of the "A Closer Look" series and uses paintings from the National Gallery, London, to explore the depiction and significance of saints in Christian art. Langmuir, a former Head of Education at the National Gallery (1988–1995) and art historian, examines how saints—recognized through attributes like St. Peter’s keys or St. Catherine’s wheel—were portrayed to convey their stories, martyrdoms, and roles as intercessors. The book covers a range of saints, from the Virgin Mary to lesser-known figures, highlighting their evolution in art from early Christian symbols to richly detailed Renaissance images.

At 96 pages, with 90 color illustrations, it traces the development of saintly iconography, reflecting theological shifts and cultural contexts, such as the emphasis on martyrdom in medieval art or the humanist focus on individuality in the Renaissance. Langmuir addresses common misconceptions, noting that attributes were not always fixed and that saints’ depictions often depended on local traditions or artists’ interpretations. The text is accessible yet scholarly, drawing on her expertise from the University of Sussex and the Open University, making it ideal for art lovers and those interested in religious iconography. Its scope is limited to the National Gallery’s collection, providing a focused but engaging study of saints in Western art.