Duccio's "Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints"

Duccio Di Buoninsegna
"Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints" Maestá altarpiece from Siena, Italy
Tempera and Gold Leaf on wood
Sienese School 1308-1311 BCE

The Sienese believed the Virgin brought them victory over the Florentines, so she was the religious focus of the public. Duccio was commissioned to paint this work for the high altar of the Siena Cathedral. When the work was completed the whole town of Siena celebrated.

Duccio presents formality and symmetry from Byzantine painting with relaxed and softened features. These techniques are used in French Gothic works and this piece represents dialogue between Italy and N. Europe during the 14th Century.