Located on the west facade of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, near Giotto’s Bell Tower, a fascinating fourteenth-century bas-relief sculpture represents the Annunciation. This artwork is noteworthy not only for its artistry but also for its intriguing placement. The rectangular relief seems to defy logical positioning when considering the alignment of the surrounding marble slabs.
A Unique Placement Explained
The relief’s seemingly unusual placement can likely be explained by its proximity to Giotto’s Bell Tower and its alignment with the center of the second box. Historically, the area between the bell tower and the cathedral was not accessible, just as it remains closed today by a recently restored gate. The bas-relief of the Annunciation extends to the right end of the box, where a seat is located, suggesting its connection to a burial site.
The Inscription and Its Historical Significance
An inscription on the white marble frame beneath the bas-relief provides further context. Though now slightly off-center relative to the artwork, it references the sepulcher of the Laudesi Company, a Florentine confraternity devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The inscription reads:
“S ‘Sotietatis Laudensium Beate Marie Virginis Qui Congregantur in Ecclia chia reparate year D.NI McCCX de Mese Noveber”
(Translation: “Sepulcher of the Laudesi society of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who gather in the church of Santa Reparata. Year of our Lord 1310, in November.”)
This indicates that the sepulcher was originally installed in 1310 but was likely moved during the construction of Giotto’s Bell Tower. The current inscription is believed to be a replica of the original.
Attribution to Florentine Masters
The creator of the bas-relief remains unidentified, but art historians speculate that it may have been crafted by one of Florence’s minor masters of the time. These artists also contributed to other elements of the old facade and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Possible candidates include:
- The Master of the Armor
- The Master of Saturn
- The Master of Noah
- The Master of the Drunkard’s Investigation
- The Master of the Relief of the Three Kings from Santa Maria Novella
Each of these artisans was known for their contributions to Gothic sculpture in Florence during the early 14th century.
Preserving History: A Modern Perspective
Today, the Annunciation sculpture remains a remarkable example of medieval Florentine art and devotion. Visitors to Santa Maria del Fiore can marvel at its detail and ponder its historical significance, as it stands as a testament to Florence’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
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