Painted in the early 14th century, this exquisite small panel by Simone Martini was originally conceived as part of an elaborate altarpiece predella in the Sienese Gothic tradition. It portrays Saint James Major, one of Jesus's closest apostles and brother of John, distinguished by his pilgrim's staff adorned with a scallop shell and the red book he holds. The gilded background and ornate halo exemplify the refined tempera on panel technique characteristic of the period and the artist's delicate hand. This piece once formed part of a series of ten apostle portraits