Tympanum of the central portal (fragments)

In later life Arnolfo di Cambio returned to Florence (1296) and embarked on the ambitious project for the fa�ade of the Duomo until his death. It is known from paintings, a drawing and descriptions, which show that Arnolfo’s fa�ade then rose only to the height of the tympanum of the central portal. The sculptures created c. 1300 for the fa�ade of Florence Cathedral (now mainly in Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, Florence, and Bodemuseum, Berlin) are well authenticated works.

The picture shows the group from the central portal of the Duomo. The enthroned Virgin is flanked by Santa Reparata (left) and San Zanobi (right).