San Lorenzo 1460

Desiderio da Settignano's "San Lorenzo" (c. 1460) is a marble relief depicting a scene from the life of Saint Lawrence, a 3rd-century deacon and martyr. This artwork, though unfinished, is a testament to Settignano's skill in portraying delicate detail and expressive figures. The relief is housed within a decorative architectural frame, reminiscent of Renaissance ideals of order and harmony. The central scene features three figures, likely representing Lawrence and two others involved in his martyrdom. The figures are rendered with a high degree of realism, showcasing Settignano's mastery of the human form. The piece embodies the characteristics of Early Renaissance art, characterized by a return to classical themes and a focus on realism and naturalism.