The Crucifixion

Matteo di Giovanni, school of 1403 - 1495

Summary

The Crucifixion has been identified as the central predella panel of a lost altarpiece, whose side panels would have been scenes from the lives of the saints. Many Sienese works at the time were dedicated to the Virgin. It probably originated in the workshop of Matteo di Giovanni, the most successful Sienese painter of his generation. Matteo di Giovanni was born in San Sepolcro, but was principally active in Siena from 1452 and signed himself as Sienese. He was influenced by Vecchietta (c.1412-1480), and later by the Florentine brothers Antonio del Pollaiuolo (c.1432-1498) and Piero del Pollaiuolo (c.1441-c. 1496). Toward the end of his career his studio often carried out his work, probably owing to the number and importance of his commissions.

Display Label

The Crucifixion 1470s School of Matteo di Giovanni 1542 – 1495 Tempera on panel Recent research has identified The Crucifixion as the central predella panel from a lost altarpiece. It was flanked by scenes from the life of St Bernardino, the recently deceased patron saint of Siena, and saints John the Baptist, Peter and Paul. The subject of the main altarpiece is now a mystery. Probably painted in the workshop of Matteo di Giovanni, the most successful Sienese artist of his generation, it may have shown the Virgin Mary who was the subject of many Sienese works at that time. Purchased 1951.2