PONTORMO, Jacopo
(b. 1494, Pontormo, d. 1557, Firenze)

Martyrdom of St Maurice and the Theban Legion

1528-30
Oil on wood, 65 x 73 cm
Galleria Palatina (Palazzo Pitti), Florence

This picture represents a mass slaughter, including a series of crucifixions in the background. The battle scene on the left side of the panel recalls Leonardo's cartoon for the Battle of Anghiari, known today only through copies. Elsewhere there are reflections of Michelangelo's work, including the cartoon for the Battle of Cascina. Nevertheless, Pontormo always retains his own voice.




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