Via Panicale n. 39 r
the tabernacles of florence
THE TABERNACLE
Madonna col Bambino
The fresco depicts the Madonna seated on a throne of very simple forms, behind which is placed a square pluteus. The Virgin welcomes on her lap a naked, blessing Baby Jesus, lying in Mother's arms. Characteristic of the painting are the comely and melancholy physiognomies of the Madonna and of the Child, and the astonishing invention of the open vault of Heaven, from which golden rays emanate.
Tabernacle
The tabernacle consists of a quadrangular chamber with a lowered-arched top that houses the fresco. It is located on the outer walls of what was once the monastery of San Barnaba led by the Augustinians, and which commemorated - with the church dedicated to the Saint apostle - the victory that the Republic had won against the Aretines at Campaldino, on the very day dedicated to him (June 11, 1289).
THE STREET
Via Panicale
The street owes its name to the dried panicum plant, a grass called precisely "panicale" in Florence, and it reflects the ancient connection of the inhabitants with nature and agricultural work. In ancient times it was also called “via de' Maccheroni” and “borgo Panicale”. The street is dotted with various historical memories: it’s adorned by two tabernacles and the San Barnaba church and the Sant'Orsola convent face it.
AUTHOR
Pupil of Alessandro Botticelli
(Second half of the 15th century)
Tibdit
The work comes from the well-known tondo on panel in the Uffizi, autographed by Alessandro Botticelli, and known as the “Madonna della Melagrana” (“Madonna of the Pomegranate”). Many ancient copies, derivations and variants of this painting exist, testifying to its immediate notoriety. However, in this case, the composition is greatly simplified.
OTHER INFORMATION
Info
AMICI DEI MUSEI FIORENTINI ODV - COMITATO PER IL DECORO E IL RESTAURO DEI TABERNACOLI - Card by Bruno Santi - Restorer: Mario Celesia (1995) - Director of works: Monica Bietti - Funding: Soprintendenza per i Beni artistici e storici di Firenze, Pistoia e Prato
GALLERY
Tabernacle
Via Panicale n. 39 R
Madonna col Bambino
Via Panicale n. 39 R
Detail: Child
Via Panicale n. 39 R
FURTHER INFORMATION
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