Pere Serra was a Catalan painter of the Gothic period who was active during the second half of the 14th century, specifically documented between 1357 and 1406. While his exact birth and death dates are not recorded, his works provide substantial information regarding his active periods as an artist. Pere Serra was a member of the prominent Serra family of painters, which included his brothers Jaume, Francesc, and Joan, who were also accomplished painters of their time. The Serra workshop, located in Barcelona, became one of the most important and productive painting workshops in Catalonia during the late medieval period.
Pere Serra's work is characterized by the influence of Italian painting, specifically the style associated with Siena, which was introduced into Catalonia during this period. His paintings are noted for their elegance, refined use of color, and the delicate depiction of figures. Serra's work often included religious themes, which was typical for the period, with commissions for altarpieces and other religious artworks being a significant part of his production.
Among his notable works is the altarpiece for the Convent of Sant Francesc in Barcelona, which showcases his skill in composition and his ability to convey narrative through painting. His other important works include the altarpiece of the Virgin Mary and Saints for the church of Santa Maria de Manresa and the altarpiece of the Virgin for the church of Sant Pere de Cubells. These works contribute to the understanding of the stylistic developments in Catalan painting during the late 14th century.
Pere Serra's contribution to the Gothic art of Catalonia has been recognized as significant, and his work reflects the transition in European art from the medieval to the early Renaissance period. His legacy continued through the Serra workshop, which maintained influence in Catalan painting well into the 15th century. Although not as much is known about his life compared to other artists of later periods, Pere Serra’s extant works are invaluable for the study of medieval art in the Iberian Peninsula.