Pulpit in the Pisa Baptistery, Marble pulpit in Baptistery of Pisa, Italy
The pulpit in the Pisa Baptistery is a hexagonal marble structure resting on seven columns with carved relief panels on its sides. The central column is supported by sculpted figures, while six outer columns rest on stone lions.
Sculptor Nicola Pisano created this marble work between 1257 and 1260, marking a turning point between Romanesque and Gothic art. The work set new standards for Italian sculpture and influenced artists who came after him.
The carved panels show five scenes from the New Testament in high relief across the marble surfaces. These biblical depictions served as visual instruction for those unable to read, making scripture tangible within worship.
The pulpit is located indoors within the Baptistery and can be viewed from multiple angles throughout the interior space. Access is straightforward since the work sits on level ground within the building.
The pulpit blends classical Roman artistic elements with medieval Christian symbols across its relief panels. This fusion of ancient artistic language with religious imagery makes it a bridge between two artistic worlds.
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