Donatello’s monumental bronze sculpture Judith and Holofernes in the Palazzo Vecchio, the Brancacci Chapel’s sublime frescoes and ornamentation, and the Church of the Santissima Annunziata’s intricately decorated Oratory of St. Sebastian are now on display thanks to the Friends of Florence Foundation.
Numerous new insights into the artworks themselves, the methods used by the artists to make them, earlier interventions, and the history of the locations were uncovered by the three initiatives. Modern techniques were employed for every repair, and the famous conservators of Florence kept a close eye on everything.
“All of these initiatives signify significant periods in Florentine history,” stated Simonetta Brandolini d’Adda, head of Friends of Florence. “The biblical heroine Judith defeats an Assyrian commander in Donatello’s masterpiece. The intricate work at the Brancacci Chapel gave guests a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the paintings up close and necessitated the use of a scaffolding equipment to handle the double-tiered wall frescoes. After suffering significant damage during the 1966 flood, the multi-dimensional Oratory in the church of the Santissima Annunziata has been restored to its previous splendor. We sincerely thank the benefactors who provided such kind gifts to help preserve and repair these masterpieces.
Donatello’s Judith and Holofernes
Piero de’ Medici commissioned the sculpture group, which previously stood where Michelangelo’s David now stands. It was meant to tell the tale of heroism triumphing over oppression, as well as to rally support for the Florentine Republic. When the Medici dynasty was banished in 1495, the piece was recast as a powerful emblem of public liberty. The restoration team includes Palazzo Vecchio curator Dr. Serena Pini, art historian Dr. Lia Brunori, who served as supervisor, and restorer Nicola Salvioli.
Brancacci Chapel
For more detailed information, you can visit the official website.
