Return to main page
This is a group of three scenes from frescos in the Italian Cathedral of Atri, painted ca. 1480 by Andrea Delitio. In general, this group shows an absence of the characteristic Shepherds Purse, although one shepherd is wearing an interesting shoulder bag (see notes below). The first scene is from "Annncio a Gioacchino" showing a shepherd in the background wearing what is evidently a characteristic style of coat, but with no visible pouches.
click here or on picture for more complete scene
The second scene is from "Gioacchino tra i pastori", and the shepherd figure wears over his shoulder a crescent-shaped pouch with a strap that appears to split into two cords, possibly suggesting that the end of the pouch is closed by a drawstring. (This is, however, reading a fair amount into a somewhat indistinct image.) He also carries a basket with pale, round objects (possibly bread?) inside.
click here or on picture for more complete scene
The third group is a Nativity scene, with two groups of shepherds in the background, nicely illustrating iconic activities: the group of shepherds around a fire listing to the Annunciation, and a line of dancing shepherds. One shepherd in each group wears some sort of round object hanging from his belt, but no pouches are in evidence.
click here or on picture for larger version
Detail: shepherds around the fire
click here or on picture for larger version
Detail: dancing shepherds
click here or on picture for larger version
Benedicenti, Giovanbattista & Lorenzo Lorenzi. 2001. Andrea Delitio: Catalogo della Opere. Centro Di, Firenze. p.81, 93