The Last Judgement detail: Enrico Scrovegni presenting the Scrovegni Chapel, Giotto (1266-1336)
This detail from the west wall of the Scrovegni Chapel, Padua, recalls for us how heavily the weight of family honour and shame influenced late medieval life. Those who like tyrants, unscrupulous merchants and money-lenders abused their wealth and power, often became the target of fierce criticism. Enrico Scrovegni’s father Reginaldo was denounced by Dante for his sharp practices as money-lender. The public nature of his family’s offence could only be off-set by an equally public gesture of contrition. Hence Enrico decided to erect the chapel that bears his name. In this small simple space Giotto created one of the most astonishing ensembles in the entire history of art, one that has enjoyed unreserved praise from every sort of viewer. Traditionally the scene of the Last Judgement was placed on the inner west wall of a church, so that as the faithful exited they would be reminded of the Judgement awaiting them. Here the viewer looked up to see the patron Enrico Scrovegni presenting to three saints a model of the chapel that he has built and paid for. The central haloed figure is usually identified as the Virgin, and indeed the chapel was dedicated to her. In loving kindness she stretches out her right hand in a movement which conveys her acceptance of the penitent donor’s tribute to her honour. The Virgin’s loving, expansive gesture echoes across seven centuries as new generations of viewers contemplate the promise of redemption.
Art Guide Resource
The 2013 Art Guide has been compiled by Claire Renkin, well-known Art Historian and Lecturer at Yarra Theological Union and narrated by Margaret Coffey. Margaret has a background in historical research, journalism, education and broadcasting including at the ABC. Artworks featured © Bridgeman Images.
Related Links
- VIDEO TRANSCRIPT: Download the 2013 Art Guide (PDF) Resource
- Watch/Listen to the complete 2013 Art Guide
