The National Gallery exhibition “Siena: The Rise of Painting” delves into Siena’s artistic evolution before the Black Death, featuring works by renowned artists like Duccio and Simone Martini. The show highlights the city’s wealth, cosmopolitan influences, and the significance of the Virgin Mary in art. It showcases opulent gold backgrounds and innovative narrative techniques, emphasizing Siena’s lasting impact on European art.
The exhibition “Siena: The Rise of Painting” at the National Gallery explores the remarkable artistic achievements of Siena during its golden age before the Black Death in 1348. Featuring renowned artists such as Duccio, Simone Martini, and the Lorenzetti brothers, the exhibition highlights their contributions to the city’s artistic legacy alongside its goldsmiths and textile workers. Visitors can expect an emotionally charged experience showcasing beauty, skill, and spirituality across masterful works in a stunning presentation.
Siena’s wealth as a banking and trade centre facilitated exceptional artistic production, evident in the exhibition’s lavish gold decorations. Its cosmopolitan nature, influenced by the Via Francigena pilgrimage route, welcomed diverse artistic styles, including French Gothic. Competition with Florence spurred excellence, and the patronage of the Virgin Mary is prominent throughout the display, depicted in various works including a triple panel by Pietro Lorenzetti and Duccio’s tender Madonna.
Distinctive elements of Sienese art are well represented, including the use of folded panels and opulent gold backgrounds, which serve to enhance the depictions of the Virgin and saints. Amongst the exhibits, the Adoration of the Magi showcases intricate gold detailing against a dark blue backdrop, capturing the viewer’s attention. The emotional depth and narrative techniques in the paintings are evident in scenes like the raising of Lazarus and the stubborn adolescent Christ discovered in the Temple.
Other highlights include Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s panels that skillfully depict multiple events in single images, showcasing innovative storytelling. Siena’s renowned craftsmanship is on display with exquisite goldwork pieces such as a gilded silver chalice. The closing of the exhibition features the Wilton Diptych, illustrating the extensive influence Siena had far beyond its borders.
“Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300–1350” runs from 8 March to 22 June 2025, offering an unmissable opportunity to appreciate the city’s remarkable artistic history. Visitors to the National Gallery should not miss this blockbuster exhibition that vividly brings Siena’s past to life.
The exhibition at the National Gallery highlights Siena’s rich artistic heritage from 1300 to 1350, showcasing the works of celebrated artists and the city’s opulence before the Black Death. Key themes include the influence of the Virgin Mary, innovative narrative techniques, and the city’s cosmopolitan nature. This showcase illustrates Siena’s lasting impact on European art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Original Source: www.standard.co.uk