Giotto in the Louvre

Huge fan of Giotto. A genius of an astounding ouvre. I’ve already discussed his “Pentecost” at the National Gallery, London.

Below are some of his masterpieces at the Louvre.

His art functions today as it did in his day - tell the story of Christ and Biblical tales - but I find them aesthetically beautiful and appreciate the affected humanism/drama.

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The Crucifixion by Giotto

“Christ on the Cross” between two thieves. I love the angels hovering over fiery clouds.

I do like the dark mountains and skyline - but it was originally golden, it seems. Stolen or “faded”?

Giotto’s innovation was his portrayal of events with believable emotions and recognisable settings and spaces.

Pain, upset, Mary overcome. Such ornate and glowing halos. And yet, most faces (eyes, noses etc.) seem to follow a given stylistic template. 

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Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata by Giotto

Beautiful.

Magical gold. Seraph’s wings appear brown because Giotto used vermillion (mercury sulphide) as a red pigment and egg tempera as a base. They made his colours particularly susceptible to darkening over the 7 centuries since he painted them. 

It’s easy to see the captivating magic of his golden halo.

The sense of perspective to the houses is funny and those lonely trees (esp. by St Francis’ knee) have such ornate leaves on them.

Notwithstanding the above, it does feel still detached from our world, our nature and reality.

For me, especially the folds and shadows along the creases/wrinkles along St Francis’ habit. Not only is it remarkable, but I’m struck by the fact that’s bound to be more difficult on egg tempera to create shades of brown.

The predella

The predella shows three scenes from the saint’s life: 

The Dream of Pope Innocent III

St Francis holding up the Church while the Pope sleeps. Highly ornate, and decent 3D structural effect.

The Approval of the Franciscan Rule

The Sermon to the Birds

Beautifully painted bird wings landing.

Tree is detailed in its real-life branches & leaves.

The birds painted with attention.

Beautiful.

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Painted cross with a pelican by Giotto

This is huge and v. beautiful.

Takes up a large space on the wall of the Louvre.

The cross - with Christ’s head protruding - was intended for worshippers to “see” Christ from below as they looked up at him.