At the Florence Baptistery

Virtually explore the Florence Baptistery with Smarthistory as your guide

videos + essays

Filippo Brunelleschi and Lorenzo Ghiberti, <em>Sacrifice of Isaac</em>
Filippo Brunelleschi and Lorenzo Ghiberti, Sacrifice of Isaac

Brunelleschi’s panel may be scarier, but Ghiberti’s is more emotionally complex. In both, an angel saves the day.

Lorenzo Ghiberti, <em>Gates of Paradise</em>, East Doors of the Florence Baptistry
Lorenzo Ghiberti, Gates of Paradise, East Doors of the Florence Baptistry

These gilded bronze doors are a masterpiece of clarity and illusionism. Space coheres, and figures move with ease.