Antico Altare Maggiore Nella Chiesa Di San Lorenzo in Antronapiana 1890

Giuseppe Barberis created this print of the Antico Altare Maggiore in the Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Antronapiana sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. The altar’s elaborate structure commands attention. Vertical lines dominate, drawing the eye upward through tiers of detailed carvings and figures, culminating in a decorative apex. The strong contrasts in tone create depth and emphasize the ornate details, while the striped fabric in the background intensifies the visual drama. The symmetry suggests a carefully constructed order, and also a sense of balance and reverence. Considered through the lens of structuralism, the altar can be seen as a system of signs. Each figure, carving, and architectural element symbolizes religious narratives and doctrines. The altar’s imposing scale and intricate design serve not only an aesthetic purpose but also function as a powerful tool to convey religious authority. The print invites us to consider how the artist's choices reflect broader cultural values and modes of communication.