1
List of the 13 Most Famous Paintings by Orcagna
Обновено Октомври 2026 · класирано според нашия индекс на популярност (търсения, посещения и поръчки за всяко произведение) · 13 творби на Orcagna в нашия каталог
Резюме
The most widely known painting by Orcagna is Saint John the Baptist (1355), in the collection of the Художествена галерия на Йейлския университет, Ню Хейвън. The next entries are The Calling of St. Matthew (1367) and Throne of Grace (1400). The catalogue documents 13 works by Orcagna; the 13 entries below are the best known, listed in rank order with date, holding museum and description.
1315 – 1368, Florence
Най-много творби: Cappella Strozzi
Orcagna: the 10 principal paintings
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Orcagna: entries 11 to 13
Principal subjects in the work of Orcagna
The four subjects most frequently represented among these works, each with its best-known example.
Orcagna: holding museums
5 музея, които притежават най-голям брой от картините на тази страница.
| Музеи | Град | Творения на Orcagna | Картини от този списък |
|---|---|---|---|
 Cappella Strozzi |
Florence | 2 | View of the Chapel, The Strozzi Altarpiece |
 Художествена галерия на Йейлския университет |
Ню Хейвън | 1 | Saint John the Baptist |
 Национален музей във Варшава |
Варшава | 1 | Throne of Grace |
 Палацо Вечо |
Флоренция | 1 | The Expulsion of the Duke of Athens |
 Rijksmuseum |
Амстердам | 1 | Triptych with the Virgin and Child, and Saints Mary Magdalene and Ansanus, Andrea di Cione named Orcagna, 1350 |
Orcagna: principal painting of each decade
Произведения по десетилетия
Select a decade to display its principal painting.
Orcagna's paintings: reference questions
Which painting by Orcagna is the most widely known?Display the answer
Saint John the Baptist (1355), Художествена галерия на Йейлския университет, Ню Хейвън. The following entries are The Calling of St. Matthew (1367) and Throne of Grace (1400).
What was the age of Orcagna when Saint John the Baptist was painted?Display the answer
40 years: Orcagna was born in 1315 and Saint John the Baptist is dated 1355.
Which ten paintings by Orcagna are the best known?Display the answer
Saint John the Baptist, The Calling of St. Matthew, Throne of Grace, The Burial of the Virgin, Tabernacle (detail), Tabernacle, Dormition and Assumption of the Virgin, detail of the Tabernacle, View of the Chapel, Hell (fragment) и The Expulsion of the Duke of Athens. The list above records the date and holding museum of each.
How many works by Orcagna are documented?Display the answer
The catalogue records 13 works by Orcagna, dated between 1343 and 1367.
Which museums hold the best-known paintings of Orcagna?Display the answer
Principally in Cappella Strozzi (Florence), Художествена галерия на Йейлския университет (Ню Хейвън) и Национален музей във Варшава (Варшава). The museum table above gives the full distribution.
In which period were Orcagna's best-known works painted?Display the answer
In 1350s: 8 of the 13 works listed on this page are dated to that period, including Saint John the Baptist.
Which are the earliest and latest dated works by Orcagna on this list?Display the answer
The earliest dated work listed here is The Expulsion of the Duke of Athens (1343); the latest is The Calling of St. Matthew (1367).
Which works by Orcagna are in the collection of the Cappella Strozzi?Display the answer
View of the Chapel и The Strozzi Altarpiece are among the 2 works on this page in the collection of the Cappella Strozzi, Florence.
Are reproductions of paintings by Orcagna available?Display the answer
Yes. Each work listed on this page can be ordered from its own entry as a hand-painted oil reproduction or a fine art print, in a size of your choice.
Orcagna: biographical notes
Andrea di Cione: The Architect of Florentine Vision
The name Orcagna—a moniker bestowed upon him by local artisans—encompasses a remarkable figure in the history of Italian art: Andrea di Cione, a painter, sculptor, architect, and master craftsman who dominated the artistic landscape of Florence during the latter half of the 14th century. Born around 1308 within the bustling heart of the city, Orcagna’s life was inextricably linked to its burgeoning wealth, political intrigue, and fervent religious devotion—elements that profoundly shaped his distinctive style and enduring legacy. His story isn't one of solitary genius, but rather a testament to collaborative artistry, meticulous planning, and an unwavering commitment to both technical mastery and expressive power.
Orcagna’s early life remains shrouded in some mystery, though it is believed he apprenticed under the renowned sculptor Andrea Pisano. This formative experience instilled within him a deep appreciation for classical forms and a sophisticated understanding of three-dimensional space—qualities that would later manifest in his monumental marble tabernacle for Orsanmichele. However, Orcagna’s artistic trajectory quickly diverged from his master's, developing a distinctly Florentine style characterized by dramatic figures, vibrant colors, and an innovative approach to composition. He was formally admitted into the painter’s guild in 1343-44 and later joined the stonemasons’ guild in 1352, demonstrating his versatility and ambition across multiple artistic disciplines.
The Grandeur of Orvieto: Mosaic Master
Orcagna's most celebrated achievement undoubtedly lies in his contribution to the magnificent façade of the cathedral in Orvieto. Commissioned in 1358, this project demanded a level of technical skill and artistic vision that pushed Orcagna to the very limits of his abilities. He oversaw the creation of an extensive mosaic decoration, including a breathtaking rose window—a masterpiece of Byzantine-inspired design that exemplifies the lavishness and spiritual intensity characteristic of the period. The mosaics themselves are characterized by their rich palette, intricate detailing, and powerful emotional impact, reflecting Orcagna’s mastery of color theory and his ability to imbue religious subjects with palpable drama.
The scale of this undertaking was immense, requiring meticulous planning and coordination. Orcagna's role extended beyond mere execution; he served as a consultant, guiding the work of numerous skilled artisans and ensuring that every element harmonized within the overall design. The Orvieto mosaics stand as a testament to his organizational prowess and his ability to synthesize diverse artistic talents into a cohesive whole.
The Sculptural Triumph: Orsanmichele’s Tabernacle
Perhaps Orcagna's most enduring legacy resides in the monumental marble tabernacle he designed and oversaw for the Orsanmichele, a former confraternity hall now serving as a public art gallery. Completed between 1352 and 1359, this architectural marvel is a complex and ambitious undertaking that showcases Orcagna’s exceptional skill as an architect and sculptor. The tabernacle's intricate façade is adorned with a multitude of sculpted figures—a veritable encyclopedia of biblical narratives, allegorical symbols, and classical motifs. Each figure is rendered with remarkable detail and expressive power, reflecting Orcagna’s deep understanding of human anatomy and his ability to convey complex emotions through gesture and expression.
The tabernacle's design incorporates a sophisticated system of arches, vaults, and niches, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The use of color—particularly the vibrant hues of the inlaid marble—further enhances its visual impact. Orcagna’s work on Orsanmichele demonstrates his mastery of both architectural form and sculptural technique, solidifying his reputation as one of Florence's most accomplished artists.
A Legacy of Innovation
Orcagna’s influence extended far beyond the immediate commissions he undertook. His innovative approach to composition—characterized by dynamic figures, dramatic lighting, and a heightened sense of realism—helped to shape the course of Florentine painting in the late 14th century. He bridged the gap between the Gothic traditions inherited from his predecessors and the emerging Renaissance style, paving the way for future generations of artists. His work served as an inspiration to many of Florence’s leading painters, including Jacopo di Cione, his brother, who continued Orcagna's artistic legacy after his death in 1368.
Orcagna’s untimely death at the age of sixty is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the immense loss suffered by the Florentine art world. Despite his relatively short career, he left behind a remarkable body of work that continues to captivate audiences today—a testament to his extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and enduring vision.