Smarthistory: Cimabue, Virgin and Child Enthroned, and Prophets (Santa Trinita Maest)

Overview

• Artwork: Cimabue, Virgin and Child Enthroned, and Prophets (Santa Trinita Maest)
• Date: c. 1290-1300
• Medium: Tempera on wood, gold background
• Dimensions: 384 x 223 cm
• Current Location: Uffizi, Florence

Key Speakers

• Dr. Beth Harris
• Dr. Steven Zucker

Main Topics

Context and Commission

• Commissioned by a confraternity associated with the Church of Santa Trinità in Florence.
• Part of a series of similar large panel paintings featuring the Virgin and Child enthroned.
• Intended as a spiritual focus for laypeople within the public part of the church.

Artwork Description and Symbolism

• Composition: Mary and Christ seated on a gem-studded throne in a gold leaf background.
• Mary's Gesture: Gestures toward Christ, indicating him as the path to salvation.
• Christ: Shown blessing, holding a scroll referencing the Old Testament.
• Prophets: Old Testament prophets included at the bottom, holding scrolls.
• Artistic Influence: Stylistic elements from Byzantine art (e.g., long fingers, elongated bodies).

Artistic Features

• Throne Perspective: Cimabue uses perspective to create depth and space, making figures appear to occupy real space.
• Gold Detailing: Provides both decorative effects and a sense of dimensionality.
• Angels: Larger, surrounding the throne, creating a sense of interaction with holy figures.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Cult of the Virgin Mary: Reflects the growing importance of Mary as an intercessor in late medieval religion.
• Influence of Byzantine Icons: Adaptation of icon types like Hodegetria.
• Innovative Elements: Inclusion of prophets and the depiction of volume and space foreshadow later Renaissance techniques.

Significance of Prophets

• Figures Included: Jeremiah, Abraham, David, and Isaiah.
• Significance: Each prophet held scrolls with biblical texts prophesying Christ’s coming.
• David's Prominence: Highlighted through bright red attire, symbols of kinship to Christ.

Influence and Legacy

• Artistic Transition: Marks a shift towards more naturalism and dimensionality in Western painting.
• Comparison with Giotto: Predecessor to Giotto’s more illusionistic style.
• Role of Lay Confraternities: Demonstrates the involvement of lay organizations in religious and artistic patronage.

Bibliography and Further Reading

• For more information, visit the Uffizi Gallery or explore further readings on Byzantine icons and Cimabue’s influence on early Renaissance art.

Images and Further Exploration

• Explore Smarthistory’s teaching resources for more visuals and context on this artwork.