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Fra Angelico

James C. Hamilton
Updated by Lou Giorgetti

Fra Angelico: 5th Centenary of Death
Stamp Design from the fresco
Pope Sixtus II Conferring Diaconate on St. Lawrence
Scott 195-196 (1955)
February 18 marks the date of death for Fra Angelico, who died on this day in 1455.

Born Guido di Pietro at Vicchio, a town near Florence, around the year 1395, Fra Angelico is referred to in a number of ways. To his contemporaries, he was "Fra Giovanni da Fiesole" ("Friar John of Fiesole") and "Fra Giovanni Angelico" ("Angelic Brother John"). Today he is called "Beato Angelico" ("Blessed Angelic One"). He was of the best known and most prolific fresco artists of the Renaissance. He entered the Dominican Order in 1407, initially working on illuminated manuscripts, and was ordained a priest in 1418. His works may be seen at the Dominican friary of San Marco, in Florence, which is well-worth a visit by pilgrims to Italy. In addition to his Annunciation and Crucifixion, he painted a series of frescoes in the monks’ cells. He also contributed paintings to other chapels in Italy. He died in Rome in 1455 and is buried in the Church of S. Maria sopra Minerva.

Historian of the saints, David Farmer, summarizes Fra Angelico’s work as follows:

"His many surviving paintings radiate spiritual serenity and a religious dedication achieved by few others. They reveal also a marvellous command of colour, light, and perspective. He is generally reckoned one of the greatest painters of the Quattrocento (14th century)."

In 1982, Pope John Paul II proclaimed him "Blessed", in recognition of the holiness of his life, and in 1984 was named a patron saint of artists.

The works of Fra Angelico appear on many stamps issued by Vatican City. Here is a sampling of issues featuring the great artist's masterpieces: