GRANACCI, Francesco
(b. 1477, Firenze, d. 1543, Firenze)

Assumption of the Virgin

1517-19
Panel, 228 x 205 cm
Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota

This altarpiece was made for a Medici Chapel in S. Pier Maggiore in Florence. It can be seen that Granacci's style is close to Michelangelo's panel-painting style. The predilection for an unfussy drapery style and designs of powerful three-dimensionality featuring monumental, sculptural figures are shared by both painters. The represented saints are Thomas, John the Baptist, James, Lawrence and Bartholomew. Vasari claimed that St Thomas was so vigorous that it might be taken for one by Michelangelo.