Saint Benedict and The Holy Rule

Eusebio di Iacopo Cristoforo, known as Eusebio da San Giorgio
oil on canvas
before 1492

Eusebio da San Giorgio was one of the most faithful followers of Perugino. He worked with the Master on two large polyptychs in San Pietro (1495-1500) and Sant’Agostino (1502-1523). He also did independent work for the monastery, as seen by the two panels depicting San Benedetto che consegna la Regola (Saint Benedict presenting the Holy Rule). This may be the work various archival documents indicate was finished and paid for on 1492. Saint Benedict is in the center of the composition, wearing a sumptuous cape; flanking him are San Mauro and San Placido (Saint Maurus and Saint Placidus), who appear to be interceding for the monks kneeling on the steps, who wish to receive the Rule. The scene is set within a rectangular hall, beneath a barrel-vaulted ceiling, all executed with the simple lines typical of the Renaissance. 

The current placement of the third altar in the right aisle dates from the first half of the 19th century. It was at that moment that a predella featuring Storie di Santa Caterina (The life of Santa Caterina) was paired with the panel; apart from the fact that the subject matter has no connection with that of the panel, the styles of both works are also considerably different. One can deduce, therefore, that the predella, which is of excellent workmanship, was originally part of another group.