
1395–1504
Saint Anthony (AD 251–356) was a Christian monk from Egypt, revered since his death as a saint. Many of his tales are conveyed in the Golden Legend, a classic work of the Middle Ages containing lively tales of saints’ miracles written in a simple style for a wide audience. This scene illustrates the supernatural temptation faced by Saint Anthony during his retreat to the Egyptian desert. The saint is being tempted by hideous demons, which he resisted.