Barna da Siena - Pact of Judas

Pact of Judas, Betrayal

I find that Barna da Siena’s rendition of Judas’ betrayal of Jesus is yet another piece that echoes the influence of Giotto’s artwork. This piece can be directly compared to Giotto’s work, also known as The Pact of Judas. We can see quite clearly both pieces feature Judas accepting payment before a group of people. They are huddled near religious architecture, which emphasizes the evil that they are perpetrating. In Giotto’s piece, Judas stands to the side, away from the church, possibly indicating his disconnection from it. In Barna’s piece, all the conspirators are grouped together, their treachery bound within the sharp architecture. The Barna piece is noticeably darker, showing a gloomy, blue tinted scene that further elevates the seriousness of the moment. The expressions of all those present are also serious or downright angry. In contrast, Giotto used brighter, warmer colors that nevertheless conveys the tone of the scene. Judas, clad in the yellow of envy and cowardice, accepts payment for his betrayal while the other priests look solemn but pleased. To further note the evil which Judas had committed, Giotto showed Satan clutching Judas’ arm, indicating that he is beyond redemption.