The Marriage of the Virgin
Inside the Church of San Lorenzo, there is a fresco by Rosso Fiorentino depicting a marriage of the Virgin, youthful Joseph exchanging rings with Mary. This choice was quite unusual for the time, as traditional iconography typically portrayed Joseph as an elderly man to emphasize the Virgin Mary’s purity. Rosso Fiorentino’s decision to depict him as a young man was, in its own way, revolutionary. It may have been intended to reflect the renovatio ecclesiae (renewal of the Church) promoted by the two Medici popes, Leo X and Clement VII. However, given Rosso Fiorentino’s rebellious and unconventional nature, it is also possible that his choice was deliberately provocative, even irreverent.
Regardless of the artist’s intent, this depiction gave rise to a tradition in which newlyweds would visit the fresco and present their rings as if seeking a blessing.
Rosso Fiorentino, known for his Mannerist style and bold artistic choices, painted The Marriage of the Virgin around 1523. His work is characterized by elongated figures, dramatic expressions, and striking use of color. This fresco stands out for its dynamic composition and psychological depth, reflecting the artist’s departure from classical Renaissance harmony. Unlike Raphael’s Marriage of the Virgin, which follows a serene and balanced structure, Rosso Fiorentino’s version is more intense and emotionally charged, aligning with the emerging Mannerist aesthetic.
Aside from Rosso Fiorentino’s fresco, this church has many other lovely features. Other renowned Renaissance artists created artwork to adorn this one-of-a-kind church, which was thoughtful of all Florentine, much like the Medici family’s private church. Join us as we visit Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, if you want to learn more about its fascinating history and hidden secrets.
