Giovanni Merliano Known As Giovanni Da Nola (1488-1558)

Giovanni Merliano, known as Giovanni da Nola (1488-1558), attributed to
Virgin in Glory
Polychrome and gilded wood sculpture
H 153 cm
Giovanni da Nola, along with the young Geronimo Santacroce, were able to establish a local school of sculpture in Naples, oriented toward the Tuscan manner. This was due not only to the presence in the city, in the late 15th century, of masters such as Antonio Rossellino and Benedetto da Maiano, but also to the brief but intense presence of two Spanish artists, Bartolomeo Ordonez and Diego de Siloe, followers and interpreters of Sansovino's style. Portrayed standing on soft clouds, from which emerges the curly hair of a plump cherub, the young Madonna in prayer holds her hands clasped to her chest. The oval yet full face, with a rosy complexion, framed by long, loose brown locks falling to her shoulders, is characterized by small lips, a straight nose, and ecstatic eyes filled with vibrant passion. The long robe, with a rounded neckline and gathered at the waist with a ribbon, while the finely modeled cloak, falling to her feet, is richly decorated with interlocking rosettes on a gold background of leafy scrolls. The octagonal base features a molded profile.