Marsuppini monument, Renaissance tomb in Basilica of Santa Croce, Italy
The Marsuppini monument is a marble tomb located in the sixth bay of the north aisle of the Basilica of Santa Croce. The structure stands around 6 meters tall and features intricately carved angels holding garlands, with a depiction of the Virgin and Child set within the arched lunette above.
Desiderio da Settignano created this monument between 1454 and 1459 for Carlo Marsuppini, the Chancellor of Florence who died in 1453. The work emerged during the height of the Italian Renaissance and became an influential model for tomb design in subsequent years.
The tomb displays the values of the Florentine Renaissance through its religious iconography and careful design. The representation of the Virgin and Child in the lunette above speaks to the spiritual significance placed on commemorating the chancellor's status and faith.
The tomb sits in the Basilica of Santa Croce and allows visitors to view the detailed marble carvings from different angles as they move through the aisle. The structure is positioned at ground level and remains accessible during the basilica's regular visiting hours.
Recent restoration work uncovered traces of the original colored coating that once covered the marble, including red paint on the flame above the arch. This discovery reveals that the monument was originally painted rather than appearing as pure white marble as seen today.
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