Opera del Duomo Museum My Study Self-researched
Florence, Italy
Artworks
Madonna with Glass Eyes (Madonna degli Occhi di Vetro) Self-researched
An original sculpture from the main portal of Florence Cathedral, depicting the Virgin Mary with Saints Reparata and Zanobi. Notable for the glass eyes that give the figure an unusually lifelike appearance. The use of glass inlay for the eyes was an innovative technique that enhanced the sculpture's expressiveness.
Creation of Adam
Relief sculpture depicting the Creation of Adam.
Zuccone (Prophet Habakkuk) Self-researched
A marble statue commissioned for Giotto's Campanile. The popular name "Zuccone" (pumpkin) refers to the figure's bald head. Though traditionally identified as the prophet Habakkuk, Vasari suggests it may be a portrait of Giovanni di Barduccio Cherichini. The sculpture demonstrates Donatello's mastery of psychological realism and expressive characterization.
Cantoria (Luca della Robbia) My Study Self-researched
A marble singing gallery (cantoria) originally made for Florence Cathedral. The relief panels depict joyful children and youths singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments, illustrating Psalm 150.
Cantoria (Donatello) My Study Self-researched
Singing gallery (cantoria) originally made for Florence Cathedral. Donatello's companion singing gallery to della Robbia's cantoria. Features a continuous frieze of exuberant putti (cherubs) dancing behind columns, creating a sense of joyous movement and energy.
Penitent Magdalene My Study Self-researched
A powerful wooden sculpture of Mary Magdalene, probably commissioned for the Florence Baptistery. The piece was received with astonishment for its unprecedented realism, depicting the penitent saint as an emaciated, aging figure. Late work by Donatello demonstrating his expressive late style.
The Deposition (Florentine Pietà) My Study Self-researched
A marble sculpture depicting four figures: the dead body of Jesus Christ newly taken down from the Cross, Nicodemus (said to be Michelangelo's self-portrait), Mary Magdalene, and the Virgin Mary. Originally intended for Michelangelo's own tomb. Now housed in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo but was earlier in the Duomo itself.
