Moses
Ugolino di Nerio·1320
Historical Context
This panel depicting Moses by Ugolino di Nerio likely formed part of his dismembered high altarpiece for Santa Croce in Florence, one of the most important Franciscan churches in Italy. Ugolino, a close follower of Duccio in Siena, brought Sienese refinement to Florentine patronage around 1320. The Old Testament prophet's inclusion reflects the typological program linking Hebrew scripture to the New Testament narratives elsewhere in the altarpiece.
Technical Analysis
Tempera and gold on poplar panel, with Ugolino's characteristic fusion of Duccesque linear elegance and emerging Florentine plasticity. Moses is rendered with careful attention to drapery modeling and a dignified bearing, set against a tooled gold background with incised decorative patterns.
