Description
Fra Angelico's painting Coronation of the Virgin (Cell 9) is a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance art. The piece, which measures 171 x 151 cm, is located in cell 9 of the convent of San Marco in Florence.
Fra Angelico's artistic style is characterized by his ability to render light and color realistically and in detail. In this work, the artist uses a tempera painting technique that allows him to create a smooth and shiny surface, which accentuates the luminosity of the scene.
The composition of the painting is impressive. In it, the Virgin Mary is represented being crowned by the Holy Trinity, while the angels surround her with a great variety of musical instruments. The figure of the Virgin Mary is in the center of the work, surrounded by a halo of light that gives it a divine aspect.
Color is another interesting aspect of painting. Fra Angelico uses a bright, saturated color palette, giving the work a sense of joy and celebration. Gold and blue tones are especially prominent, suggesting the importance of the coronation of the Virgin Mary.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. Fra Angelico is believed to have painted this work in the 1430s, while staying at the convent of San Marco. The piece was intended to be part of a high altar, but was eventually placed in cell 9 of the convent, where the monks could view it in private.
Finally, there are little-known aspects of the painting that make it even more interesting. For example, Fra Angelico is known to have worked closely with other artists to create this work, suggesting that the painting was a collective effort. Furthermore, the figure of the angel playing the viola da gamba is believed to have been painted by the famous Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli, who was apprenticed to Fra Angelico at the time.
In short, Fra Angelico's painting Coronation of the Virgin (Cell 9) is a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance art that stands out for its artistic style, composition, color, history, and little-known aspects.