Rinuccini Polyptych
Giovanni del Biondo·1379
Historical Context
Giovanni del Biondo's Rinuccini Polyptych (1379) is a major altarpiece created for the Rinuccini Chapel in Santa Croce, Florence, one of the city's most important Franciscan churches. Giovanni del Biondo was among the leading Florentine panel painters of the 1360s-1390s, known for his prolific output and adherence to the Orcagnesque tradition. The Rinuccini polyptych, with its multiple compartments housing saints and narrative scenes, exemplifies the monumental altarpiece format favored by wealthy Florentine banking families.
Technical Analysis
Tempera and gold on multiple joined wood panels in the polyptych format with Gothic pointed arches. Giovanni del Biondo's crisp, linear style and brilliant color are enhanced by extensive gilding with elaborate punch-decorated haloes and borders.
