Many, many panels made up this massive altarpiece. Dedicated to Mary, it stood in the crossing of Siena Cathedral. Duccio, Maestà by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
The Queen of Heaven presides over the space where government officials in Siena met to make decisions Simone Martini, Maestà by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
Girl, interrupted—Mary’s initial reaction to Gabriel adds human experience to the dignity and grace of this scene. Simone Martini, Annunciation by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris
Sure, decorative patterns and prismatic color impress us now, but gold and ultramarine once broadcast value. Duccio, Heaven on earth— The Rucellai Madonna by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
Whether church decoration or public works, the art of this wealthy city blended devotional piety and civic pride. Siena in the Late Gothic, an introduction by Dr. Joanna Milk Mac Farland
Take a peek into a 14th-century household! This painting transplants a biblical story into a busy Sienese bedroom. Pietro Lorenzetti, Birth of the Virgin by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris
Things get ugly when tyrants take over! But with peace, fortitude, and prudence, Siena prospers—an urban paradise. Ambrogio Lorenzetti, Allegory and Effects of Good ... by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
The receding columns and painted ceiling of this fictive temple mirror the Gothic environment of Siena Cathedral. Ambrogio Lorenzetti, Presentation of Jesus in the ... by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris
This little altarpiece was made to move—just like the saints on its wings, who seem to step out into our space. Duccio, The Virgin and Child with Saints ... by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker