The National Gallery presents a stunning exhibition of 14th-century Sienese art, showcasing the city’s rich history of devotion and competition. Highlights include the Orsini Polyptych and Duccio’s Maestà, with the exhibition running until 22 June. Art lovers can explore how Siena’s past influences its remarkable artistic landscape.
The National Gallery in London showcases Sienese art from the 14th century, providing visitors a glimpse of Siena’s historical splendour. However, accessibility may be an issue due to the city’s structure, which features many steps. Siena is known for the annual palio race and St Catherine, who embodies both the city’s vibrant and ascetic traditions. The arrival of the Black Death in 1350 halted Siena’s growth, which had been a thriving mercantile power.
Strategically positioned along the Via Francigena, Siena prospered from pilgrim traffic, bringing valuable goods and influential artistic styles. The exhibition features a lively marble pulpit from Nicola Pisano, showcasing the rich influence of Gothic art. Wealth from trade allowed Sienese artists to use luxurious materials, evident in Duccio’s triptych that glorifies divine love with a gold backdrop.
Siena’s competition with Florence inspired architectural grandeur, notably the cathedral’s ambitious design, halted by the plague. The exhibition highlights remnants of this lost vision, including magnificent statues. Additionally, the city’s devotion to the Virgin Mary is captured in Simone Martini’s fresco, which symbolises the civic dedication to protecting all citizens post-victory against Florence in 1315.
Martini’s Orsini Polyptych, integral to private devotion, is beautifully reassembled in the exhibition despite its panels being separated for over a century. Each piece was originally designed for contemplation, showcasing the deep Sienese reverence for art as a spiritual practice. Apart from the unified devotional works like Duccio’s Maestà, several stunning panels are displayed, emphasising their intended communal appreciation.
The exhibition, titled “Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300-1350,” is a rare opportunity to experience extraordinary art, showcasing both local and international works. It runs until 22 June at the National Gallery, offering a beautiful perspective on Sienese heritage.
The exhibition is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in Siena’s rich history, connecting both sides of the Atlantic in a stunning array of artwork that reflects past devotion.
The exhibition at the National Gallery illuminates the richness of Sienese art and historical context, highlighting themes of devotion, civic identity, and competition. From 14th-century masterpieces to reassembled polyptychs, it bridges cultural gaps and revives the splendour of Siena’s golden age. Visitors will undoubtedly gain profound insights into the city’s artistic legacy while experiencing a unique collection worth seeing before it ends on 22 June.
Original Source: thecatholicherald.com