St Matthew Triptych and Stories from his Life

Author:     Painted in: c. 1367-1368    Framework: Tempera on wood, 291x265    Located in: 14th Century Florentine Painting Room

St Matthew Triptych and Stories from his Life is a work of art by Andrea di Cione, also known as the Orcagna, completed by his brother Jacopo di Cione and dating back to c. 1367-1368.

It testifies the importance of the Florentine Guilds, the “Arti” (corporation of workers) in the history of Florence.

The Guilds were extremely important for Florence, not only economically (they actually produced the wealth of the city), but also culturally because they took care of various monuments and also commissioned many works of art.

This rather unusual work of art is a clear example of these commissions. Just look at it: its shape is weird, but its weirdness will soon disappear if you consider its original destination. The Triptych was in fact commissioned by the Bankers Guild and was meant to be a "clothing" for the west pillar in Orsanmichele Church, the Florentine Guilds Church.

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Working in Florence, the Cione brothers, Jacopo, Andrea (Orcagna), Nardo and Matteo often collaborated. The brothers regarded themselves as architects, sculptors and painters. Jacopo was the...Read more