Siena Cathedral Pulpit, Marble pulpit in Siena Cathedral, Italy
The Siena Cathedral Pulpit is an octagonal structure carved from Carrara marble with seven narrative panels depicting scenes from the life of Christ. The artwork stands on eight outer columns made of granite, porphyry, and green marble, creating a varied color effect through these different materials.
This work was created between 1265 and 1268 by Nicola Pisano, Giovanni Pisano, and Arnolfo di Cambio during a period of economic growth in Siena. In 1543, Bartolomeo Neroni moved the artwork from the choir to its present location and added an extra staircase.
The central column displays carved figures representing Philosophy and the Seven Liberal Arts. These figures show how medieval thinkers valued knowledge and learning.
Visitors should allow time to examine the fine details of the seven marble narrative panels up close. Stepping back from the artwork helps you see the full octagonal structure and the variety of its supporting columns.
The outer surfaces show cracks in some marble areas, evidence of centuries of use and weather exposure that the artwork has endured. These fine marks tell of the long history the work has experienced within the cathedral.
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