Media Information

 
 
 
Collection:
ADJUNCT MODULE A: ITALIAN ART
Preferred Title:
Annunciation (Sant'Ansano Altarpiece)
Alternate Title:
Annunciation with Saint Maxima and Saint Ansanus
Image View:
Central panel by Martini; lower figure of Mary on an elaborate throne; lily in vase at the left
Creator:
Lippo Memmi (Italian painter, active 1317-ca. 1350); Simone Martini (Italian painter, ca. 1284-1344)
Location:
repository: Galleria degli Uffizi (Florence, Tuscany, Italy) Inv. 1890 nn. 451, 452, 453
Location Note:
Piazzale degli Uffizi
GPS:
43.768639 11.255214
Date:
1333 (creation)
Cultural Context:
Italian
Style Period:
Gothic (Medieval)
Work Type 1:
altarpiece
Work Type 2:
panel painting
Classification:
painting
Material:
tempera paint on panel with gilding
Technique:
gilding (technique); painting and painting techniques
Measurements:
305 cm (height) x 265 cm (width)
Inscription:
SYMON MARTINI ET LIPPVS MEMMI DE SENIS ME PINXERVNT ANNO DOMINI MCCCXXXIII
Description:
The Sant'Ansano altarpiece of the Annunciation (1333; Florence, Uffizi), painted for a side altar in Siena Cathedral, is original in its treatment. The requirements were novel; a major altarpiece in the new Gothic style containing a narrative event in its main panel. The effects are now marred by an over-elaborate late 19th century frame. The Prophets Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Isaiah and Daniel appear in the pinnacles. The altarpiece is, however, still dominated by its two central figures by Simone Martini. The altarpiece contains a dramatic confrontation of rare sensitivity: Gabriel, mouth open, enunciates the fateful words, which are embossed in the gold-leaf background, and the Virgin on her splendid throne draws back in alarm. The precise nature and extent of Lippo’s participation in this work are disputed by scholars, but his name appears in the inscription with Martini's (his brother-in-law) and date. (Source: Grove Art Online; http://www.oxfordart online.com/)
Collection:
Adjunct Module A: Italian Art
Identifier:
7A3-M-UG-ASA-A06
Rights:
© Scott Gilchrist, Archivision, Inc.

Annunciation (Sant'Ansano Altarpiece)