Escape to myself

This afternoon our tour with the lovely Maurizio took us to the 13th century church of Santa Maria Novella. Not necessarily beautiful architecturally though it was interesting. A large church it’s principal interest lay in the wonderful frescoes in the Tornabuoni chapel by Ghirlandaio from the late 15th century and those earlier frescoes in another side chapel. There was also a wonderful set of medieval work in the monks community room. The church was a Dominican foundation serving as a pilgrims hospital relating to st James. Maurizio gave an interesting insight into the economic, commercial and cultural role of Florence at this period and its influence on art.

The crucifix by Giotto

I’ve noted before the importance of Giotto as a turning point between medieval and Renaissance art and his ability to humanise Christ and display emotion. This is a great work of art

Tornabuoni Chapel

This was a rather wonderful chapel decorated by Ghirlandaio in the 1470s. Wonderfully realists works in which the artist depicted the family and friends of the rich Tornabuoni family as participants in bible stories. It reminded me of the conversational pictures in the Camera degli Sposi in Mantua. Ghirlandaio depicted himself in The work … an arrogant gesture from a self confident artist. In all spectacular.

The monk’s community room

This wonderful room was a last gasp of the gothic. No perspective and people disproportionate to buildings. But it’s naïveté was touching and rather fabulous. I loved the hunting scene with its dogs chasing deer and wild boar. Full of movement and interest. I like this period in art as much as any other. It has an innocence and touch of faith about it.

And now for an aperitivo. Limoncello spritz!