By the early fourteenth century, Siena was a wealthy and cosmopolitan city.
1300s
By the early fourteenth century, Siena was a wealthy and cosmopolitan city.
1300s
For centuries, Siena’s role in the history of European art was underappreciated.
Many, many panels made up this massive altarpiece. Dedicated to Mary, it stood in the crossing of Siena Cathedral.
The Queen of Heaven presides over the space where government officials in Siena met to make decisions
Girl, interrupted—Mary’s initial reaction to Gabriel adds human experience to the dignity and grace of this scene.
Sure, decorative patterns and prismatic color impress us now, but gold and ultramarine once broadcast value.
Whether church decoration or public works, the art of this wealthy city blended devotional piety and civic pride.
Take a peek into a 14th-century household! This painting transplants a biblical story into a busy Sienese bedroom.
Things get ugly when tyrants take over! But with peace, fortitude, and prudence, Siena prospers—an urban paradise.
The receding columns and painted ceiling of this fictive temple mirror the Gothic environment of Siena Cathedral.
This little altarpiece was made to move—just like the saints on its wings, who seem to step out into our space.