Rinuccini Chapel (basilica of Santa Croce) 1370

Editor: So, here we have a section of the "Rinuccini Chapel," specifically a fresco dating back to 1370, by Giovanni da Milano. There's this… interesting central figure looking quite pensive. What stands out to you in this work? Curator: Well, aren't frescoes magical? There's an earthy quality that just sings to me! The layers of storytelling woven into it… The colors are muted, as you'd expect, whispers of ochre and sienna giving it that lived-in feel. But that central figure, the saint, really grabs you. Almost like he's just had a revelation. He seems so troubled, doesn't he? Like he's questioning things. Do you get that vibe? Editor: I do. I also note an angel depicted above with someone dressed in white robes carrying prayer beads on the right. Curator: It's funny, isn’t it? History is riddled with these moments, artists bravely pouring doubt onto chapel walls for everyone to see. Editor: It is a bold contrast between what appears to be an elder lost in thought with images and characters representative of a church. Curator: Yes. And, sometimes I imagine the artist, da Milano, chuckling to himself. What does he think, as time has passed? Is this doubt comforting, humorous or disturbing to him? This moment immortalized on a Florentine wall, don’t you think? Editor: Definitely gives you food for thought! Thanks for walking me through this. Curator: My pleasure. Perhaps we should embrace this beautiful imperfection!