the Guild of St. Luke

The Guild of St. Luke was a professional organization of painters and artists, especially prominent in medieval and Renaissance Europe, named after the patron saint of artists and doctors. It served to regulate the quality of work, set standards, provide support, and protect members’ interests. Members often gathered for training, collaboration, and socialization. These guilds helped ensure craftsmanship and reputation, sometimes controlling trade practices and markets. Though less common today, they played a significant role in shaping the development and regulation of artistic professions during their time.