Fra Filippo Lippi and workshop – Saint Mamas in Prison thrown to the Lions Part 2 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a figure enclosed within a stark, rectilinear cage. The central subject is a man, depicted in prayerful posture with hands clasped and head bowed. He wears a voluminous cloak of deep green, draped over a lighter undergarment, and is encircled by a golden halo, signifying his sanctity. His face exhibits an expression of quiet resignation or perhaps acceptance, rather than overt fear.
The cage itself dominates the visual space. Its dark metal bars create a rigid framework that isolates the figure from any external environment. The perspective suggests a shallow depth; the viewer feels positioned directly in front of this confined scene. Behind the man, two lions are visible, their forms rendered with considerable detail and a palpable sense of weight. Their proximity to the prisoner underscores the imminent threat he faces.
The background is minimal, consisting primarily of a flat grey wall that reinforces the feeling of confinement. A vibrant red surface serves as the floor of the enclosure, providing a striking contrast against the darker tones of the cage and lions. This color choice may symbolize martyrdom or sacrifice.
Subtleties within the work invite deeper consideration. The meticulous rendering of the lions’ fur suggests an attempt to portray their power and potential danger, while also hinting at a certain natural beauty even in creatures associated with destruction. The mans posture, though seemingly passive, conveys a sense of inner strength and spiritual fortitude. His gaze is directed downwards, perhaps indicating humility or contemplation rather than terror.
The overall effect is one of poignant stillness and restrained drama. The artist has created a scene that speaks to themes of faith, suffering, and the confrontation with mortality. The deliberate use of geometric forms – the cage’s rigid structure juxtaposed against the figures flowing robes – creates a visual tension that amplifies the emotional impact of the narrative.