Slaughter of the Innocents 1490

Domenico Ghirlandaio created this fresco of the Slaughter of the Innocents here in Santa Maria Novella using vivid colors and a skilled hand. Painting in fresco is a labor-intensive process. The artist applies pigments to wet plaster, ensuring the colors become part of the wall itself. The artist would have needed a team of assistants to prepare the plaster. Ghirlandaio was a master of his craft, and his workshop was one of the most efficient in Florence. In this scene, he captures the horror of the biblical event with striking realism. The fresco technique, with its emphasis on permanence, underscores the gravity of the subject. Ghirlandaio's skilled application of paint brings depth and emotion to the figures, making their suffering palpable, a testament to the enduring power of skilled artistry. By considering the tangible labor and techniques invested in frescoes like this, we appreciate the blend of artistry and craftmanship that defines the Renaissance.