An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
The Coronation of the Virgin with Five Music-Making Angels1408
Artist: Mariotto di Nardo
Italian (Florence), active 1394 - 1424
60 1/8 x 27 x 1 15/16 in. (152.72 x 68.58 x 4.92 cm) (panel)
61 3/4 x 33 in. (156.85 x 83.82 cm) (outer frame)
Tempera on poplar panel
Painting
Italy
15th century
The Putnam Dana McMillan Fund
On a serene afternoon in Florence, the sun cast gentle rays over a quaint church known as Santo Stefano in Pane, nestled on the outskirts of the bustling city. In a place where art breathed life into every corner, the atmosphere was alive with whispers of devotion and inspiration, a sanctuary where the divine seemed ever-present.
Within this sacred space, a breathtaking panel captured the heart and soul of the faithful. It depicted Christ, raising his hand to crown Mary, his earthly mother, anointing her as the queen of heaven. The moment was filled with heavenly grandeur, as angels, ethereal and splendid, filled the scene with celestial music. Their delicate harmonies seemed to float through the air, leaving no doubt of their divine presence.
This particular masterpiece was not just a painting; it was a testament to the artist Mariotto’s devotion and skill. In a time when many sought to replicate the world around them, Mariotto took a different path. His artistry flourished in the crisp details and profound subtleties of color, as seen in the intricately feathered wings of the angels and the fluid draping of their robes. Each brushstroke told a story, transforming colors into living ethereal beings that danced on the canvas.
Originally, this stunning panel served as the heart of a grand altarpiece, surrounded by a collection of other evocative works. Among them, two small pieces, "Saint Bartholomew" and "Saint Anthony Abbott" by Mariotto di Nardo, graced the upper corners, each a silent witness to the divine drama unfolding below. These smaller images, now part of Mia's collection, held a special place in the grand composition, completing the narrative in their own right.
Yet, the beauty of this artwork endured, not just through its vivid imagery, but also thanks to the compassion of an anonymous donor whose generous contribution made its conservation possible. This act of kindness ensured that the captivating story of Mary’s crowning—and the whispers of heavenly music—would continue to resonate within the walls of Santo Stefano, inspiring all who came to witness the connection between earth and heaven.
About the artist
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