Description
Here, the deceased, Riccardo Gattola, kneels in his armor before the Virgin and Child, from whom he receives a blessing. His hope for salvation is represented by this depiction of his devotion to the Virgin while alive. He is presented by a pilgrim, probably Saint James the Great, venerated as a protector of knights and crusaders, holding a staff (partly missing) and food bag. Riccardo Gattola came from Gaeta, south of Rome, and was one of the courtiers of Queen Giovanna II of Naples.
This relief originally formed the front of Gattola's sarcophagus, which was supported by four short columns. On the lid was a reclining statue of him dressed in armor and an inscription with his name, the date, and the name of the artist. Other elements of the tomb belong to the Museo Bardini, Florence. This complex tomb very likely once stood in a church in Gaeta. The three-panel format, severe facial expressions, stylized drapery, and draped throne recall other works by Paolo da Gualdo Cattaneo, who was influenced by Lombard sculpture of the late 14th century.
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