UNKNOWN WEAVER, Italian
(beginning of the 18th century)

Portable Altar

1700-10
Wood, textiles and embroidery in various materials, 225 x 177 cm
Galleria Palatina (Palazzo Pitti), Florence

This type of folding altar was used during the frequent travels undertaken by the Medici for economic or political reasons. The rarity and the refinement of the piece well illustrate the Florentine grand ducal workshops' production of objects for devotional purposes.