Description
Duccio Di Buoninsegna's Polyptych No. 28 is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic art that has become one of the most iconic pieces of the era. This painting is a six-panel polyptych measuring 143 x 242 cm and is composed of a series of religious scenes depicting the Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ, and various saints.
Duccio's artistic style is a combination of the Byzantine tradition and the new Renaissance current that was emerging in Italy in the 13th century. In this work, you can appreciate the Byzantine influence in the representation of the figures, which are stylized and hieratic, but you can also see the Renaissance influence in the composition and use of color.
The composition of Polyptych No. 28 is impressive. Duccio manages to create a sense of depth and space in the six panels, even though each one represents a different scene. The central figure of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by saints, is the focal point of the work and her presence dominates the entire polyptych.
Color is another interesting aspect of the work. Duccio uses a rich, vibrant color palette that contrasts against the gold background. The details of the characters' clothing and jewelry are carefully rendered with meticulous and precise technique.
The history of painting is fascinating. Polyptych No. 28 was commissioned by the Siena Cathedral in 1308 and is believed to have been completed in 1311. For centuries, the work was kept in the cathedral until it was transferred to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo di Siena in the XIX century.
A little known aspect of the work is that Duccio was the first artist to sign his work. At the bottom of the central scene, the signature "DUCIUS DE BUONINSEGNA ME PINXIT" (Duccio de Buoninsegna painted me) can be seen.
In short, Duccio Di Buoninsegna's Polyptych No. 28 is an exceptional work of art that combines the Byzantine tradition and the new Renaissance current. Its composition, color and technique are impressive and its history and signature make it even more interesting. It is undoubtedly one of the most important works of Italian Gothic art.